Jewish Education & Engagement
Published:
September 17, 2025
Last updated:
April 23, 2026

Tashlich and Reverse Tashlich with Tzlil McDonald

Jewish Education & Engagement
Published:
17 Sep 2025
Last updated:
23 Apr 2026
Key Takeaways

- Symbolic Release: Tashlich (meaning "to cast out") is a Rosh Hashanah ritual where individuals toss breadcrumbs or stones into water to symbolically let go of mistakes, regrets, or habits from the past year.

- Opportunity for Renewal: The tradition is rooted in the concept of Teshuvah (repentance), offering a meaningful way to reflect, repair relationships, and begin the New Year with a clean slate.

- Modern Adaptation: A new tradition called "Reverse Tashlich" has emerged, where instead of casting items into the water, participants perform a "repair of the world" by removing trash and cleaning up local waterways.

Tzlil McDonald has over a decade of experience in program management and nonprofit leadership. Originally from Israel, she holds an MA in Jewish Experiential Education from George Washington University and is passionate about combating hate through education and community building.

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