President Ramaphosa wishes the South African Jewish community "Chag Sameach"

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the Jewish community well as they prepare to observe Rosh Hashanah.

The Jewish New Year begins at sunset on Friday, 18 September 2020 and marks the beginning of a period of introspection culminating in Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement. 

“This sacred time is one of self-reflection, of reaching out to seek the understanding of others, and of beginning afresh with sincerity and wisdom. The latter is all the more relevant as we emerge from an extremely difficult time for our country brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President has wished the Jewish community well over the fast and called on the community to pray for good health and prosperity for all the people of South Africa. 

“In the spirit of recovery, reflection and rebirth, let us move forward with hope and faith into the new year,” President Ramaphosa said.    

“L’shanah tovah tikatevu ve techatemu: “May you be inscribed and sealed in the Book of Life for a good year." 


Media enquiries: Tyrone Seale, Acting Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria