The Gregorian year 2024 encompasses two distinct Hebrew years: AM 5784 for the majority of the year, transitioning to AM 5785 in the fall.
The Hebrew calendar operates on a lunisolar system, meaning its years are based on both the sun and the moon. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which begins on January 1st, the Hebrew New Year, known as Rosh Hashanah, typically falls in September or October. This annual transition means that a single Gregorian calendar year often spans parts of two different Hebrew years.
Understanding the Transition in 2024
For the year 2024, the transition from one Hebrew year to the next occurs in early October. Here's a breakdown:
- From January 1, 2024, until sunset on October 2, 2024, the Hebrew year is AM 5784.
- From sunset on October 2, 2024, through December 31, 2024, the Hebrew year becomes AM 5785. This new year, AM 5785, will continue until sunset on September 22, 2025.
This shift marks the start of a new cycle in the Hebrew calendar, moving from the prior year to the one that follows.
Key Dates for Hebrew Year in 2024
To illustrate the dual nature of the Hebrew year within 2024, refer to the table below:
Period (Gregorian Calendar) | Hebrew Year | Event/Context |
---|---|---|
January 1, 2024 – Sunset, October 2, 2024 | AM 5784 | The primary Hebrew year for most of 2024 |
Sunset, October 2, 2024 – December 31, 2024 | AM 5785 | The new Hebrew year, starting with Rosh Hashanah |
This table clarifies which Hebrew year applies to specific portions of the Gregorian year 2024.
What Does "AM" Mean?
The "AM" prefix stands for Anno Mundi, which is Latin for "in the year of the world." This numbering system counts years from the creation of the world as calculated within Jewish tradition. It's an essential aspect of the Hebrew calendar, providing a continuous chronological reference from a foundational event.
Hebrew Calendar