President Izhak Ben-Zvi, in a New Year’s message to world Jewry, expressed the hope today that “the God of Israel” would strengthen the hands of all our brethren wherever they are and encourage those of the peoples of the world who sincerely strive for peace among the nations.”
Expressing pride in the achievements of Israel during the past Jewish year, the President declared “there is still a long road ahead of us towards the achievements of our main goal–the redemption of the exiles and the strengthening of our State-against hatred and hostility.” He expressed the hope that the New Year would witness “the realization of the vision of our great ancient prophets who foresaw from the mountains of Zion that ‘nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they war any more.'”
The Chief Rabbinate and the Ministry for Religious Affairs rushed last-minute arrangements to assure full observance of the most solemn period in the Jewish year. At military bases, special Rosh Hashanah services will be provided for those members of the Armed Forces who will be unable to be at their homes during the High Holy Days, Military chaplains will distribute Rosh Hashanah gifts to servicemen.
Abundant produce were available on the eve of the New Year but prices have risen, particularly for farm products. It was estimated that more than 8,000 tourists were spending Rosh Hashanah in Israel, about 2,000 more than last year. Israel’s hotels were booked fully for the holiday season.
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
