What is the purpose of Kol Nidre?

Kol Nidre, (Aramaic: “All Vows”), a prayer sung in Jewish synagogues at the beginning of the service on the eve of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). The name, derived from the opening words, also designates the melody to which the prayer is traditionally chanted.

Is Yom Kippur in the Bible?

Leviticus 16:29 mandates establishment of this holy day on the 10th day of the 7th month as the day of atonement for sins. It calls it the Sabbath of Sabbaths and a day upon which one must afflict one’s soul. Leviticus 23:27 decrees that Yom Kippur is a strict day of rest.

Is it a sin not to fast on Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur is a day of fasting, not a day about fasting. The Torah tells us that on this day, “you shall practice self-denial” (Leviticus 16:29) for this is the day of atonement. In fact, if fasting on Yom Kippur endangers your life, Jewish law and tradition tells us we must not fast.

What is the significance of the final prayer in the Yom Kippur service?

During the final service, which represents the “closing” of the gates of Heaven and the sealing of God’s book, those who can remain standing do so, and the entire congregation rededicates itself to the spiritual tenets of Judaism through prayer. (Pictures: Orthodox Jews observe Yom Kippur.)

Why do we say Kol Nidre 3 times?

According to the holy Zohar, Kol Nidre is recited on Yom Kippur because, at times, the Heavenly judgment is handed down as an ‘avowed decree’ for which there can normally be no annulment.

What Yom Tov means?

Origin of yom tov Literally, “good day”

Do seniors fast on Yom Kippur?

For many Jewish elders, fasting on Yom Kippur is a religious and cultural imperative as well as a life-long tradition. In fact, many seniors who may not be traditional in other ways continue the practice of abstaining from all food on this holiest day of the Jewish year, the Day of Atonement.

How do you conclude Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur officially ends following the last blowing of a ram’s horn, or shofar, during Neilah, which is the closing service. Traditionally, people will gather together for a break-fast meal after Yom Kippur ends.