Have a Happy Sweet New Year – honey & Judaism

Food and religion is intertwined – whether it’s stories of Jesus turning water into wine in the Christian faith or leaving fresh fruit at altars in the Buddhist tradition.

When I heard about Sonoma Market hosting  “A Spoonful of Honey,” a free honey tasting event on August 11 and September 8, I was curious as to the meaning of honey in the Jewish faith.

“Happy Sweet New Year,” is one of many greetings that Jewish folks throughout Sonoma Valley, and around the world, will say to their friends and family when Rosh Hashanah takes place starting at sundown on September 13 and ending on September 15.

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, “a holiday that revolves around self-reflection and self-evaluation. This can include contemplating the year’s mistakes and considering the changes you hope to make in the coming year,” shared Carol Appel, Judaism Concierge for Big Tent Judaism (BTJ). Appel’s unique job title has her planning events throughout Sonoma County to inspire, engage and inform people about Judaism.

A Spoonful of Honey is one of her events, which will feature a local honey tasting, honey recipes and a chance for the community at-large to learn more about the symbols and rituals of Rosh Hashanah. You’ll also be able to enter into a raffle to take a tasty, sweet basket of Rosh Hashanah-inspired goodies home.

“Honey is a symbol of wishing for a sweet new year,” says Appel, “any type of honey can be used, and it is eaten with challah egg bread and apples,” which will be featured at both events. If you’ve never had challah and honey you’re missing out – it’s sweet bread that has a flavor similar to brioche, which makes for an excellent pairing with tasty honey.

A Spoonful of Honey is free and takes place on August 11, 11AM-2pm, and September 8, 4PM-7PM, at Sonoma Market. 500 West Napa Street, Suite 550; 996-3411, sonomamarket.net.