Rosh Chodesh Adar 1 is tonight, Tuesday night, February 5th.

Adar 1 is a two-day Rosh Chodesh, and lasts from Tuesday night until Thursday night.

Please remember to add in all your Tefillos, beginning Tuesday night in Maariv, Yaale v'Yavo in your Amidah and when you bentch after eating.

Rosh Chodesh literally means the head of the month, but the word 'Chodesh' comes from the root 'chadash' meaning new, referring to the New Moon. The monthly renewal of the Moon, is compared to the Jewish people who also from time to time wax and wane and in the future will stay whole.

Special portions are added to the daily prayers: Hallel (Psalms 113-118) is recited -- in its "partial" form -- following the Shacharit Amidah, also the Yaaleh V'yavo is added to the Amidah and to Grace After Meals; the additional Musaf is said. Tachnun (confession of sins) and similar prayers are omitted.

Many have the custom to mark Rosh Chodesh with a festive meal and reduced work activity. The latter custom is prevalent amongst women, who have a special affinity with Rosh Chodesh -- the month being the feminine aspect of the Jewish Calendar.