Yom Kippur’s origins lie in the Torah, where it is described as a “Sabbath of complete rest” and a “holy convocation.” According to tradition, on this day, Moses descended from Mount Sinai with the second set of tablets, and the sin of the Golden Calf was forgiven for the people of Israel. It is considered a day of forgiveness, pardon, and cleansing from sins.
The main observances and traditions of Yom Kippur include fasting and abstaining from eating, drinking, and five additional forms of affliction for about 25 hours. There is also a prohibition against work similar to that of the Sabbath, which includes refraining from labor and driving. It is customary to wear white clothing as a symbol of purity and to emulate the angels.
Throughout the day, there are five special prayer services, beginning with “Kol Nidrei” on the eve of the holiday and ending with “Neilah” at its conclusion. A central element of the prayers is the confessional (Vidui), during which a list of sins is recited and forgiveness is sought. The day starts in the evening with the “Kol Nidrei” prayer, followed by Shacharit (morning prayer), Musaf (additional prayer), Mincha (afternoon prayer), and Neilah (closing prayer) throughout the next day. The fast and the holiday conclude with the sounding of the shofar, marking the end of the day.
In Israeli society, Yom Kippur holds special significance. Most activities in the country come to a halt, including public transportation and TV and radio broadcasts. Studies show high rates of fasting, even among Jews who identify as secular. A unique phenomenon that has developed is riding bicycles on the empty streets, free of cars.
Historically, during the time of the Temple, Yom Kippur was the only day of the year when the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies. In 1973, the Yom Kippur War broke out on this day, adding another layer of national significance in Israel’s modern history.
Despite social and cultural changes, Yom Kippur remains a deeply meaningful day for many Jews, both religious and secular. It offers a unique opportunity for personal and collective introspection, marking a significant moment in the Jewish and Israeli calendar.
