Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance, where Jewish people seek to atone for their sins and ask for forgiveness from God. In 2016, Yom Kippur will begin at sunset on Tuesday, October 11th, and end at nightfall on Wednesday, October 12th.
The Meaning of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur is a time for Jews to reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness for any wrongs they have committed. It is based on the biblical commandment to "afflict your souls" on the tenth day of the seventh month, which is the day of Yom Kippur. Jews believe that on this day, God seals their fate for the coming year, so they must repent and seek forgiveness in order to be written in the Book of Life.
The Customs and Traditions of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur is a day of fasting, which means Jews are not allowed to eat or drink anything for the entire day. They also refrain from other activities such as bathing, wearing leather shoes, and engaging in sexual relations. Jews spend most of the day in synagogue, where they recite special prayers and readings from the Torah. The highlight of the day is the Neilah service, which is a final plea for forgiveness before the gates of heaven are closed.
The Significance of Yom Kippur in Jewish History
Yom Kippur has played a significant role in Jewish history. It was on this day that Moses received the second set of tablets from God, which replaced the ones he had smashed in anger at the sight of the Golden Calf. It was also on this day that the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies in the Temple in Jerusalem to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people.
How to Prepare for Yom Kippur
Preparing for Yom Kippur involves several steps. Jews are encouraged to engage in acts of repentance and charity in the days leading up to the holiday. They are also expected to perform a ritual called kaparot, which involves swinging a live chicken over one's head and reciting a prayer asking God to transfer one's sins to the chicken. This practice is controversial and has been criticized by animal rights activists. However, many Jews still perform it as a way of symbolically atoning for their sins.
Celebrating Yom Kippur Around the World
Yom Kippur is celebrated by Jews all over the world, although the customs and traditions may vary depending on the community. In Israel, the entire country comes to a standstill as businesses and transportation shut down for the day. In other parts of the world, Jews may take time off work or school to attend synagogue services and observe the fast.
The Conclusion of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur ends with the sounding of the shofar, a ram's horn that is blown to signify the conclusion of the holiday. Jews then break their fast with a festive meal known as the break-fast. It is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the end of the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.