For Rosh Hashanah, common and meaningful greetings include:
- "Shanah Tovah" (שנה טובה): This is the most common greeting meaning "Good Year" or "Happy New Year."
- "Shanah Tovah Umetukah" (שנה טובה ומתוקה): Extends the greeting to mean "A good and sweet year," wishing joy and positivity.
- "L’Shanah Tovah Tikatevu" (לשנה טובה תכתבו): A formal wish meaning "May you be inscribed for a good year," referring to being inscribed in the Book of Life.
- "Ketivah Vachatimah Tovah" (כתיבה וחתימה טובה): Used in the days leading up to Yom Kippur, meaning "A good inscription and sealing."
- "Tizku Leshanim Rabot" (תזכו לשנים רבות): Wishing someone to "merit many years" or longevity.
In English, simple expressions like "Happy Rosh Hashanah," "Happy New Year," or "Wishing you a sweet and prosperous new year" are warmly received. Family and friends might enjoy more personalized wishes like:
- "May this New Year bring you blessings, sweet moments, and cherished memories."
- "Wishing you a year filled with health, happiness, and peace."
- "May your home be filled with the sweetness of honey and the warmth of community this year."
These phrases convey good wishes and are appropriate for all settings, from informal to formal.