Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is considered the holiest day for people who practice Judaism.
When it is celebrated?
Yom Kippur,, is the most important day of the year on the Jewish calendar. It is held on the 10th of Tishri, the first Jewish month, and marks the completion of the 10-day season of repentance and reflection known as the “High Holidays,” which commenced with Rosh Hashanah. Because the Jewish calendar is lunar, the festival technically lasts two calendar days. Days are counted from sunset to sunset. It starts this year at sunset on September 24 and lasts through the evening of September 25.
“Days of Awe”
Yom Kippur marks the end of a 10-day period known as the “Days of Awe” that begins with the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah.
Over the course of the year, Jews around the world are to confront their mistakes and sins through worship and prayer so as t
o atone for their wrongdoings. Jews seek forgiveness with fear and wonder as they face God’s judgement. People are encouraged to self-reflect on their failings and faults.
The origins of Yom Kippur can be traced back to Moses’ leading of the ancient Israelites out of slavery, as described in the book of Exodus. He took them to Mount Sinai, where Moses personally received the Ten Commandments from God. When he came back with the tablets, he found his people worshipping a false idol, a Golden Calf. In rage, Moses destroyed the tablets, but the people atoned for their guilt, so God forgave them.
Abstaining for the day
On this day, most devout Jews fast from sundown to sunset, refraining from food and water. More observant members will refrain from cleansing, wearing leather shoes, using scents or lotions, and engaging in marital activities in addition to fasting. Abstinence from earthly and material activities, to whatever extent practiced, represents a purification of the spirit, ensuring that one’s commitment to repentance is sincere and pure.
Breaking the fast
After a day of repentance and self-reflection it is customary to eat a meal to “break the fast.” At sundown, families, groups, and friends gather to eat together, marking the conclusion of the festival. In North America, typical breakfast cuisine is derived from Jewish deli fare: bagels, lox, schmears, and all the toppings. Don’t forget the coffee cake or Jewish apple cake for dessert.
Also read: https://newswaves24.com/rosh-hashanah-celebrations-begin-with-prayers/
