Brhan Sereke: Traditions & Observance

For Ethiopian Jews (Beta Israel), Rosh Hashanah is known as Brhan Sereke or Sereke Brhan, meaning “Shining Light” in Ge’ez, the sacred liturgical language of Ethiopian Judaism. The name reflects the hope and light of the new year and evokes the first light of creation described in Bereshit.

Traditional observance brings together ritual purification, remembrance, communal prayer, and shared meals, emphasizing spiritual renewal and preparation for the year ahead.As you explore these traditions, consider how remembrance, religious practices, and community participation help mark a new beginning.

Remembering Abraham: Preparing for the New Year

Central to Brhan Sereke is Tizkor Avraham, a remembrance associated with Abraham and the Binding of Isaac (Bereshit 22). Rather than reenacting the sacrifice itself, this tradition recalls Abraham's trial, faith, and endurance through uncertainty. On the eve of Brhan Sereke, community members traditionally gather at a river for a ritual immersion of purification to prepare for the new year while recalling Abraham's faith and devotion. It also symbolizes the passage from trial toward renewal.

Welcoming the New Year: Prayer & Community

On the morning of Brhan Sereke, community members dress in clean clothing and traditional white garments before gathering for holiday prayers. Neighbors customarily walk together to the synagogue, where the Kessim (religious leaders) lead communal worship. During the service, the Kessim read from Gedele Avraham, a sacred text recounting the death of Abraham, chanted in Ge’ez.

Holiday Meals & Rest

Following the service, the Kessim recite a blessing over Meswait, a bread baked for the new year. The bread is shared among the community and, in some traditions, divided into twelve portions representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

Field labor is traditionally prohibited, but household activities like cooking and lighting a fire are permitted.

Unlike many other Jewish communities, Beta Israel communities traditionally did not blow the shofar on Rosh Hashanah. One historical explanation associates this practice with concerns that the sound might be misunderstood by surrounding communities as a call to conflict. Instead, the holiday emphasizes prayer, communal gathering, and spiritual preparation.

The Ten Days of Repentance: Aseru Inzh Kdus

Brhan Sereke begins the Ten Days of Repentance, known in Ge’ez as Aseru Inzh Kdus (“Ten Holy Days”). This period, leading to Yom Kippur, is considered an especially sacred time for prayer, fasting, and repentance.

Traditionally, the Kessim and Shimaglae (community elders) play important roles in guiding these observances. Many community members intensify their prayers, give tzedakah, and fast during the day, eating after sunset and abstaining from meat.

The Ten Holy Days also provide an opportunity to resolve interpersonal conflicts, often with the guidance of community elders.

This period is marked by both seriousness and anticipation, as individuals and communities prepare spiritually for Yom Kippur.