We all know that the rapid ascent of the cosmic drama culminates in the creation of man on the sixth day. Even in translation, it is clear that this day is special. Yet only in Hebrew do we see just how unique the sixth day really is.
In Hebrew, the sixth day is the only day of creation that carries the definite article: Yom Ha-Shishi — the sixth day. What is the message behind this little word, “the”?
You may know that every Hebrew letter also corresponds to a number. The number six is the letter vav (ו). Vav is shaped like a hook, holding two things together. Its basic meaning is “and,” and in Hebrew grammar it is often called the vav of connection.
So “the Sixth Day” — Yom Ha-Shishi — becomes Yom Vav, the day of connection. It is the day that joins heaven and earth, the six days of creation and the Shabbat of eternal rest.
And this is why Rosh Ha-Shanah is the anniversary of the sixth day, not the first. Because, according to Jewish understanding, it was only when humanity was created that creation became meaningful. On this day, heaven and earth were connected, and God was proclaimed King.