RED BANK — Congregation Beth Shalom will hold its annual Shofar Blowing Contest at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the synagogue at 186 Maple Ave.
According to Rabbi Yerachmiel Shapiro, the event is held to raise awareness as Jews prepare for Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar — and just for fun.
Traditionally, the shofar is made from the horn of an animal such as a ram. This ancient wind instrument is the ancestor of modern bugles and trumpets. Today, it is used primarily in Jewish rituals, especially on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the day of repentance, when hearing the shofar fulfills a commandment and raises individual consciousness. Historically, the shofar would have been used in ancient Israel to announce events of importance.
There is no entry fee and the public is invited to enter. Shofars will be provided. Prizes will be awarded and light refreshments served.
Congregation Beth Shalom, a modern orthodox synagogue, is celebrating its 53rd anniversary. Yom Kippur services will begin Sunday, Sept. 27, at sundown. For information, call 732-741-1657 or email redbankrabbi@ yahoo.com.