The holiday known as Rosh Hashanah started sundown, Friday, Sept. 18, as the "high holy days" in the Jewish faith.
    
According to the Jewish calendar, the new year is 5770, dating back to when God created the earth.
  
Israelis were at the market Friday shopping for the holiday meals, which includes apples and honey for a sweet new year.

Richard Hellman, president of the 'Christians' Israel Public Action Campaign talked to CBN News about what Rosh Hashana means. Hellman explained why this is not just a day for Jews, but for Christians to celebrate as well. Click play to watch.
    
President Obama sent a special video message to Israelis.

"Throughout history the Jewish people have been, in the words of the prophet Isaiah, 'A light unto the nations,'" he said. "Jews have overcome extraordinary adversity, holding fast to the hope of a better tomorrow. In this season of renewal we celebrate that spirit. We honor a great and ancient faith. And we rededicate ourselves to the work of repairing this world."