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What is the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) and how is it
celebrated?
Yom Kippur. The Day of Atonement. Following a period
of introspection, reconcile with neighbors and friends.
Fast and pray for forgiveness for the prior year's sins.
Yom Kippur is the single most important holiday of the
Jewish year. Many people who do not observe any other
holidays will refrain from work, fast, and/or attend services.
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is set aside as a day
to atone for the sins of the past year between you and
God. On this day, judgment is final and the Book of Life
is sealed. Yom Kippur is a 25-hour fasting period that
begins before sunset the day before Yom Kippur and ending
after sunset on the day of Yom Kippur. Most of the day
is spent in prayer. The concluding service of Yom Kippur
is known as Ne'ilah, and runs about an hour. The ark is
open and the congregation remains standing the entire
time. This service is often referred to as "the closing
of the gates," the last chance one has to repent and have
his or her name inscribed in the Book of Life. Yom Kippur
ends with a long, loud blast from the shofar.
Also See: JOI's
Yom Kippur Holiday Page.
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