yom kippur

Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest and most solemn day of the Jewish year. It serves as the culmination of the "Ten Days of Awe" (or Days of Repentance) that begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

Meaning and Significance

• Atonement and Repentance: The day is dedicated to prayer, fasting, and deep introspection. It is a time for individuals to seek forgiveness for sins committed over the past year, both from God and from fellow human beings.
• Sealing of Fate: According to tradition, one's fate is "written" in the Book of Life on Rosh Hashanah and "sealed" on Yom Kippur.
• Observances: It is characterized by a 25-hour fast and extended religious services in the synagogue, including the Kol Nidrei service at the start and the Neila service at the conclusion. Many also abstain from work, wearing leather shoes, bathing, and using cosmetics.

Yom Kippur 2026

In 2026, Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Sunday, September 20, and ends at nightfall on Monday, September 21.

Holiday Greetings

Because Yom Kippur is a solemn day of reflection, it is not customary to say "Happy Yom Kippur". Instead, common greetings include:

• "Have an easy fast"
• "G'mar chatimah tovah" (may you be sealed for a good year)
• "Have a meaningful fast" or "Wishing you a meaningful Yom Kippur"