The spelling of "Jewish lunar calendar" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. "Jewish" is pronounced /ˈdʒuːɪʃ/, with the "j" being a voiced palato-alveolar affricate sound. "Lunar" is pronounced as /ˈluːnər/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "u" being a long vowel sound. "Calendar" is pronounced as /ˈkælen.dər/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "a" being a short vowel sound. Together, these words refer to a calendar system used in the Jewish religion that is based on the moon cycles.
The Jewish lunar calendar is a religious calendar used by the Jewish community to determine the timing of significant holidays and observances. It is based on the cycles of the Moon, with months beginning at the sighting of the new moon.
The calendar consists of 12 or 13 lunar months, typically alternating between these two options in order to align the lunar cycles with the solar year. This adjustment is necessary because the lunar year is shorter than the solar year, causing the holidays to shift through the seasons across different years.
Each lunar month in the Jewish calendar begins with the appearance of the new crescent moon, signaled by witnesses who testify to have seen it. The calendar is then adjusted by the Sanhedrin (Jewish Supreme Court) in accordance with the testimonies received from various locations in Israel. This adjustment ensures uniformity and accuracy in determining the most accurate start date of the month.
The Jewish lunar calendar is of significant religious importance as it dictates the timing of festivals and observances such as Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Passover. It is considered a deeply spiritual and sacred calendar, shaping the Jewish religious year and providing a framework for the community to come together in celebration, worship, and commemoration.