September 11, 2023
Weekly global religious, spiritual and nonreligious observance information
The President's Committee on Religion, Spirituality and Nonreligious Diversity presents the global observance information for Sept. 11 to Sept. 17.
Paryusana Festival, Sept. 11-19. Tradition: Jainism. Considered the holiest period of the year, these eight days are marked for Jains by fasting, meditation, prayer and public readings of the life story of Lord Mahavira. Observed especially by the followers of the Shvetambara sect, Paryusana concludes on Samvatsari, the most solemn occasion of self-scrutiny and forgiveness. On this day, Jains ask for forgiveness from their relatives and friends for any offense they may have committed by deed, word or thought.
Ghambar Paitishem, Sept. 12-16. Tradition: Zoroastrianism. Celebrates the creation of plants, the sowing of the winter crop and the return of herds from pasture.
Holy Cross Day, Sept. 14. Tradition: Christianity-Roman Catholic. Commemorates the finding of the cross by the Empress Helen. Observed as a strict fast day.
Rosh Hashanah, Sept. 15 -17. Tradition: Judaism. The Jewish New Year and the anniversary of the creation of the world, Rosh Hashanah is the first of the 10 Days of Awe, also known as the 10 Days of Repentance, that conclude on Yom Kippur. It marks the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews.
The President's Committee on Religious, Spiritual and Nonreligious Diversity welcomes those of all global religious, spiritual and nonreligious commitments. Further, we welcome any suggestions, questions or other comments. Please contact the committee’s interim chair, David Yetter, at dyetter@k-state.edu.