Tashlich (casting off) is when we walk to flowing water, say the following prayer, and symbolically throw our sins into the water.

Who is like You, God, who removes iniquity and overlooks transgression of the remainder of His inheritance. He does not remain angry forever because He desires kindness. He will return and He will be merciful to us, and He will conquer our iniquities, and He will cast off our sins into the depths of the seas. Give truth to Jacob, kindness to Abraham, like that you swore to our ancestors from long ago.

Tashlich is done on the first afternoon of Rosh HaShana. If Rosh Hashana falls on Shabbat, then Tashlich is done on the second day of Rosh HaShana. If Tashlich was not done on Rosh Hashana, it may be said anytime during the Ten Days of Repentance. The practice of Tashlich is not discussed in the Bible, but it is a long-standing custom.

Licensed by Lisa Katz