The casting off of sins of the previous year is a ritual performed during the Jewish New Year.It is possible to do Tashlich during any time of the year.It is possible to prepare for the new year and come to terms with the previous year by participating in the ritual.
Step 1: You can easily access a body of water if you look for it.
You have to cast your sins into a body of water like a river, spring, lake, pond or well.The effect of your sins being swept away by the current is what most people prefer.If you're having trouble finding a place to perform, talk to your Rabbi about potential places near the synagogue or hometown.They might be able to point you in the right direction.Running water from a hose or faucet is acceptable if you can't get to a natural body of water.Even if you can only see the river from a distance, it is still acceptable to perform Tashlich.
Step 2: If you can, look for a body of water with fish living in it.
There are a number of reasons why fish are symbolic.Humans tend to get caught in bad situations and unintentionally catch fish in nets.The fish will protect you from evil when you cast your sins into the water.If you can't find a body of water with fish, or you're not sure if fish are present, it's still acceptable to perform Tashlich.
Step 3: You need to get to the water after Mincha.
It is supposed to be performed on the first or second day of Mincha.If you are unable to perform the ceremony at that time, you can do it any day of the year.You will have to wait until the following year if you miss the chance to perform.
Step 4: Take a look at what you've struggled with in the past year.
Before you can cast away your sins, you need to review your behavior over the last year.Don't be afraid to be honest with yourself during this period of review because everyone struggles with mistakes, sins, and accidents.Some people like to make a list of things that stand out to them.repetitive behaviors, negative acts, and even good things that they want to do more often can be examples of this.Talk to your Rabbi about what is bothering you if you are having a hard time with your introspection.They may have some advice on how to get over the mistakes and sins of the previous year.
Step 5: Take a stroll.
Take some time to think about how you can improve in the new year.Many Jews recommend taking a walk and meditating to think of ways that you can change your behavior and return to God in the next year.It is important to remember that the goal of the year is to move forward, not to dwell on the past.
Step 6: You can read the passages of the book.
The last verse of the prophet Micah is where the source passage for Tashlich comes from.The story of why the Jewish people practice Tashlich is told in these verse.Some communities focus on sections 33, 118, and 130 in the bible to encourage further reflection.
Step 7: You can collect your "sins" in your pockets.
Some people put bread crumbs or pieces of rice in their pockets to act as physical symbols of their sins.It is helpful to have something to throw in the water during the ceremony.The tossing of breadcrumbs is discouraged by some Rabbis.It is helpful to see the sins being washed away for young people.If you are going to a body of water, never use paper or other items to represent your sins.These can cause pollution in the area.If you use a small basin in your home, you can use paper.
Step 8: Go to the basin or body of water.
This trip is performed in large numbers by some synagogues.Taking the time during the walk to think about your past year and what you would like to do better in the upcoming year is something you can do alone.Be careful while walking, but try to avoid becoming distracted.If the body of water is in a wooded area, watch your step.Older people may want to try to get as close to the water as possible with a car.
Step 9: If you think it is appropriate, chant it.
If a Rabbi leads you to the water, they will chant about the practice of Tashlich, relinquishing sins, and starting anew.You can either meditate on your sins or join in the chanting during that time.The chanting stops when you get to the water, except for the leader.It is okay if you do not feel comfortable chanting.Even if it means being a bit quieter than the rest of the group, you are free to perform Tashlich.
Step 10: Hope for the year is what you should say a small prayer about.
This is a difficult part of the city.You can talk to God at the water or in your head about how you plan to do better.If you want to improve, try to be as transparent as possible.Many people struggle with this part of the ceremony because they feel like they have to promise to be perfect.All you have to do is be honest about your abilities, admit to your mistakes, and strive to be better.
Step 11: Put your sins into the water.
After your prayer, reach into your pockets and grab your metaphorical sins, and throw them into the water.When you let go of them, breathe and watch them wash away.When you feel ready, cast your sins away.Don't feel rushed, it might take you longer than other people to prepare for this moment.The people who are with you know what an emotional moment this can be.