Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah) – Keeping it simple

Minimal “must-know” set (if you just need the core)

  • Leviticus 23:23–25

  • Numbers 29:1–6

  • Nehemiah 8:1–12

  • Numbers 10:10

  • Psalm 81:3–4

here’s a simple, first-time guide to Yom Teruah (Feast of Trumpets) for Gentile believers who want to honor God’s commandments.

What it is (plain language)

  • Yom Teruah means “Day of Shouting/Trumpet Blasts.”

  • It’s a holy day God set in the Bible to start the fall season of His appointments.

  • Core idea: pause, gather, make a joyful noise to God, remember Him, and be ready for His return.

Where the Bible says it

  • Leviticus 23:23–25 — God commands a holy day with trumpet/shofar blasts and no ordinary work.

  • Numbers 29:1–6 — Same day, with special offerings (we don’t do animal sacrifices today; Christ is our sacrifice).

  • Numbers 10:10 — Trumpets on feast days and new moons as a remembrance.

  • Nehemiah 8:1–12 — God’s people meet on this day to hear Scripture and rejoice.

When it is

  • It falls on the 1st day of the 7th biblical month (Tishrei 1).

  • Many believers simply follow the standard Jewish calendar date each year. (If your community uses visible-new-moon sighting, they’ll announce it.)

How to keep it today (simple steps)

  1. Treat it as a holy day.

    • Rest from ordinary work (as you’re able) and set the day apart for God.

  2. Assemble.

    • Gather with family, friends, or your congregation for worship and Scripture.

  3. Sound a trumpet or make a joyful shout.

    • If you have a shofar (ram’s horn), blow it; if not, use a trumpet—or simply lift your voice in praise (the Hebrew word teruah includes joyful shouting).

  4. Read the Word.

    • Suggested readings: Lev 23:23–25; Num 29:1–6; Num 10:10; Neh 8:1–12; Ps 81; Ps 98; Ps 47.

    • Optional New Testament echoes: 1 Thess 4:16–18; 1 Cor 15:51–57 (trumpet/resurrection hope).

  5. Remember and repent.

    • Thank God for His deliverance; ask Him to search your heart; realign your life with Jesus’ teaching.

  6. Rejoice and proclaim.

    • Sing, pray, testify to God’s goodness. The day is meant to be joyful.

  7. Give generously.

    • Consider an offering to bless the poor or support Gospel work (Deut 16 principles of generosity around God’s appointed times).

What this day teaches (themes in one line each)

  • God’s Kingship: we acclaim Him as King.

  • Wake-up call: the trumpet says, “Be alert—God matters most.”

  • Remembrance: God remembers His people; we remember His covenant and mercy.

  • Hope: many see this day as pointing to Messiah’s return and resurrection.

What you don’t need to worry about

  • Animal sacrifices (fulfilled in Messiah).

  • Perfect ritual knowledge or Hebrew fluency. God wants your heart.

  • Owning a shofar. Your voice counts as teruah (a joyful, faith-filled shout).

A simple home liturgy (10–15 minutes)

  1. Opening: “Lord, we set apart this day for You.”

  2. Blast/Shout: Blow a shofar (or trumpet) three short blasts + one long, or shout joyfully to the Lord.

  3. Read Scripture: Lev 23:23–25; Ps 81; 1 Thess 4:16–18.

  4. Confession & Prayer: brief repentance; ask for a wakeful heart.

  5. Praise: sing one song or speak a short psalm of praise (Ps 98).

  6. Blessing: “May the Lord awaken us to love and good works until Jesus returns. Amen.”

FAQs (quick takes)

  • Do I have to rest completely? Aim to cease ordinary work and set the time aside. Do what you can in faith and wisdom.

  • What if I’m new and unsure? Start small. God honors sincere obedience and growth.

  • Is this “Jewish only”? The feasts are God’s appointments (Lev 23) given to bless all who belong to Him in Messiah.

One-page “starter pack” (verses to memorize or post)

  • Call to keep it: Leviticus 23:23–25

  • Trumpet principle: Numbers 10:10

  • Joyful worship: Psalm 98:6; Psalm 47:5

  • Gather & rejoice: Nehemiah 8:10 (“the joy of the LORD is your strength”)