As the Jewish world prepares for Rosh Hashanah, the blowing of the Shofar is one of the central customs of the month of Elul, serving as a call to Teshuvah and preparation for the Yomim Noraim. Communities across Israel are now preparing for the upcoming Yom Tov, with Chabad Shluchim working to bring the sounds and message of the Shofar to Jews throughout the country.

The timing also comes as Israel’s political season begins to heat up. National elections are scheduled for October 27, and politicians from across the political spectrum are increasingly visiting cities and communities around the country ahead of the vote.

During Netanyahu’s visit to Sderot, Rabbi Pizem had the opportunity to combine the atmosphere of the upcoming Yom Tov with the Prime Minister’s visit, sounding the Shofar as the country prepares for both a new year and a major election season.