Second Day of Rosh Hashanah
Sunday, September 17/ 2 Tishrei
The order of the prayers is similar to the first day except for the additions for Shabbat that do not apply on the second day.
If there is a brit on Rosh Hashanah, it should be performed before the blowing of the Shofar.
Shofar-Blowing
In many communities it is customary for the rabbi to speak before the blowing of the Shofar. He should speak words that move the heart, engender humility and move one to Teshuvah.
Eating Before Hearing the Shofar
It is best not to eat or drink before hearing the Shofar blowing.
Women should preferably also not eat before hearing the Shofar. But if they are feeling weak, they may do so.
Although generally one should not fast past midday on (Shabbat and) Yom Tov, on Rosh Hashana (that falls during the week), when we are pleading for our lives, it is permissible.
One may drink water before davening (praying). Some are particular not even to drink water.
One who is weak may have a small snack. If eating after Shacharit, one must first make Kiddush. Some say that if one is weak, it is better that he hears the Shofar blasts in the morning before davening in order that he not eat before fulfilling the mitzvah of the Shofar.
