How is Yom Kippur Observed Today?

Yom Kippur is a day of "self-denial" (Lev. 23-27) with the goal of cleansing oneself of sins. Repentance (teshuva) is the theme of Yom Kippur. The 25-hour Yom Kippur Fast is the only fast day decreed in the Bible. Prayer services on Yom Kippur are lengthy and solemn. In addition to fasting and praying, many Jews observe other restrictions and customs on Yom Kippur.

Why is Yom Kippur Important?

Yom Kippur is observed eight days after Rosh HaShanah (The Jewish New Year). It is believed that on Rosh HaShana God inscribes all of our names in the "books", and on Yom Kippur the judgment entered in these books is sealed. The days between Rosh HaShana and Yom Kippur are called the Days of Awe. Yom Kippur is, essentially, our last chance to demonstrate repentance and change God's judgment. On Yom Kippur, our fate for the coming year is sealed.

Licensed by Lisa Katz