Understanding Reverse Tashlich: Answers to Common Questions You Might Have

Reverse Tashlich is a unique ritual that brings together Jewish tradition and environmental awareness. It’s a new and engaging practice that encourages communities to blend their ethical values and spiritual beliefs with a strong commitment to caring for the Earth. In this post, we explore common questions surrounding Reverse Tashlich to help you grasp its significance and practices.

What is Reverse Tashlich?

Unlike the traditional Tashlich ceremony, where sins are symbolically cast into the water, Reverse Tashlich focuses on actually removing human sin from the water. Reverse Tashlich is a ritual in which participants remove waste from the water (plastic and other debris), reflecting on our responsibility for ecological cleanliness.

This modern custom emphasizes awareness of our impact on pollution and waste. Participants not only reflect on their values but also take action to help protect their local bodies of water. For example, a group might collect plastic waste from a riverbank, directly addressing the issue of the estimated 8 million tons of plastic waste that enter the oceans each year.

Why Do People Participate in Reverse Tashlich?

People participate in Reverse Tashlich to connect spiritual reflection with environmental action as they approach the New Year. Cleaning up waterways allows individuals to think deeply about their relationship with nature as Jews, while having a visible, positive impact. For example, volunteers might collect over 300 pounds of trash from a beach in just a few hours — a deeply fulfilling experience that strengthens their commitment to sustainability.

Many are also motivated by Jewish values like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and environmental stewardship. Instead of casting sins into the water, participants remove pollution, turning reflection into action. Reverse Tashlich helps heal the Earth, build community, and make ancient rituals relevant to today’s challenges — offering hope, empowerment, and tangible change.

How is Reverse Tashlich Celebrated?

Reverse Tashlich typically begins with a group gathering by a body of water, equipped with garbage bags, gloves, and recycling bins to collect debris.

The event often opens with a brief ceremony, including prayers or reflections on environmental stewardship and entering the Jewish New Year with a clean heart. Afterward, participants work together to remove litter that harms wildlife and ecosystems. For example, during a lake clean-up, volunteers might collect bottles, plastic bags, and discarded fishing nets — all dangerous to aquatic life.

The celebration often closes with a final ceremony, offering gratitude for the environment and inspiring continued commitment to its protection.

When is Reverse Tashlich Observed?

Reverse Tashlich is most commonly observed during the Jewish High Holidays, particularly around Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. These traditional times of reflection and renewal make it a meaningful occasion to take responsibility for both personal actions and environmental health.

There are no strict rules about when to participate — many groups choose to organize events throughout the holiday season. The focus is on engaging in activities that strengthen the bond between the Jewish community and the aquatic environment.

This year, Reverse Tashlich will take place on September 28, 2025 but, if that doesn't work for your community, any time from the week before Rosh HaShanah and Simchat Torah is considered a Reverse Tashlich.

Who Can Participate in Reverse Tashlich?

One of the strengths of Reverse Tashlich is its inclusivity. Anyone, regardless of age or background, can take part. Families, friends, local organizations, and religious groups often collaborate during these clean-up events. We are also honored to have non-Jewish allies participate as well.

What Supplies Are Needed for Reverse Tashlich?

To maximize the effectiveness of Reverse Tashlich, participants should prepare a few essential supplies:

• Garbage Bags or Buckets: Large bags or buckets are essential for collecting waste. Depending on the size of the group, multiple bags may be necessary.

• Gloves: Protective gloves help keep participants safe while handling different types of waste.

• Recycling Bins: Having bins for recycling can help sort materials that can be reused, promoting sustainability.

  
  

• Water and Snacks: Participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable wter bottles to stay hydrated during the Reverse Tashlich. Depending on how long the clean-up lasts, providing snacks can keep energy levels high.

  
  

• Optional Ritual Items: Those who wish to incorporate the spiritual aspect of the Reverse Tashlich can use the Reverse Tashlich Service provided in the Resource section of our website. It also includes a traditional Tashlich Service.

  
  

How Can Individuals or Groups Get Involved?

For individuals and groups interested in Reverse Tashlich, there are various ways to participate:

• Organize a Local Event: Assemble a team of friends, family, or community members to plan a clean-up at a local waterway or beach that needs attention.

  
  

• Partner with Organizations: Collaborating with established environmental groups can help you expand your reach and amplify the positive effects of your efforts.

  
  

• Spread Awareness: Promote the practice in your community through newsletters, social media, or local forums to inspire others to join. Repair the Sea has prepared resources for all teams who sign up.

  
  

• Educate Others: Hosting workshops or discussions about Reverse Tashlich can illustrate its significance in both Jewish tradition and environmental consciousness. Ask us about having a Repair the Sea led workshop for your community!

  
  

Idea's for the Little Ones

Including young children in Reverse Tashlich can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. With a few thoughtful adjustments, kids can actively participate and feel like valued members of the effort.

• Give Age-Appropriate Tasks: Assign kids simple, safe jobs like picking up small, visible pieces of trash (under adult supervision) or helping sort recyclables into the correct bins.

  
  

• Create a "Treasure Hunt" Game: Turn the cleanup into a scavenger hunt by challenging kids to find specific types of litter (like a plastic bottle or a can), making it fun and engaging.

  
  

• Focus on Education: Take a few moments to teach kids about how trash affects animals and waterways, using simple, age-appropriate language and examples.

  
  

• Incorporate Crafts or Story Time: After the cleanup, offer a short activity like making art from collected (safe and clean) materials or reading a story about caring for nature.

  
  

• Celebrate Their Efforts: Recognize their hard work with certificates, stickers, or a group cheer — helping them feel proud of their contribution.

  
  

With a little creativity, young children can learn early on that they have the power to make a difference!

Final Thoughts

Reverse Tashlich serves as a powerful reminder of our obligation to care for the Ocean and waterways of the World. By participating in this unique program, individuals can deepen their personal and communal connections to the environment.

Making a difference begins with understanding and action. Why not join or start a Reverse Tashlich event in your community? Together, we can honor tradition while nurturing a better world and Repairing the Sea.