The Tashlich Ceremony

Can you really cast your sins into the sea? The Tashlich ceremony, performed on Rosh Hashanah, is one of the most evocative and beloved customs of the Jewish New Year. Walking to a body of water, reciting prayers, and symbolically casting away the burdens of the past year, Tashlich combines physical movement, natural beauty, and spiritual intention into a powerful experience of renewal.

The Name and Source

Tashlich means You will cast, from the verse in Micah (7:19): You will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. The custom is first mentioned in Jewish sources from the 15th century, though some authorities trace its roots to earlier Talmudic and Midrashic teachings.

How to Perform Tashlich

The ceremony is simple. On the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah (or the second day if the first falls on Shabbat), go to a natural body of water. Recite the Tashlich prayers, which include verses from Micah and several Psalms. Many people shake out the corners of their pockets or toss small pieces of bread into the water, symbolizing the casting away of sins. If you miss Rosh Hashanah itself, Tashlich can be done any time during the Ten Days of Repentance.

For detailed guidance on where and when to go, timing, locations, and the full text of the prayers, see our comprehensive Tashlich guide.

What Kind of Water?

The preference is for a natural body of flowing water: a river, stream, or ocean. Some prefer water containing fish, symbolizing God's watchful eye (just as fish eyes are always open) and the hope that we multiply like fish. However, any body of water, a lake, pond, or even a fountain, can be used if flowing water is not available.

The Prayers

The core of the Tashlich prayer includes Micah 7:18-20, which describes God as a compassionate deity who forgives sin and does not maintain anger forever. Additional Psalms (especially Psalm 118 and Psalm 130) are recited in many traditions. The complete text is found in most machzorim.

A Family Experience

Tashlich is one of the most accessible Jewish rituals, making it ideal for families. The walk to the water is often a pleasant afternoon stroll. Children can participate fully, throwing breadcrumbs and talking about what they want to do differently in the new year. Many communities organize group walks to the local river or lake, turning Tashlich into a communal experience of renewal and friendship.

The Deeper Meaning

Tashlich is not magical. Throwing bread into water does not automatically remove sin. The power of Tashlich lies in its symbolism and the kavanah (intention) you bring to it. Water in Judaism represents Torah, purification, and the source of life. Standing by water and reciting prayers of forgiveness connects the physical act to deep spiritual reality.

The act of casting away symbolizes letting go, releasing the guilt, shame, and regret that accumulate over a year. It is a physical expression of the determination to start fresh. Combined with genuine teshuvah (repentance), the Tashlich experience can be a profoundly liberating moment.

For more on the High Holidays, see our guides to Tashlich timing and locations, shofar sounds, and symbolic foods.