By Stan Goodenough
“This shall be a statute forever for you: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether a native of your own country or a stranger who dwells among you. For on that day the priest shall make atonement for you, to cleanse you, that you may be clean from all your sins before the LORD. It is a sabbath of solemn rest for you, and you shall afflict your souls. It is a statute forever…. (Leviticus 16:29-31)
On the tenth day of Tishri, Israel repents of its sins.
It is often referred to as the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Certainly it is the one day in the year in which the majority of Jews, observant and secular alike, participate.
Yom Kippur is actually the culmination of a ten day period, known as the Days of Awe and beginning with the Feast of Trumpets, during which millions of Jews spend time in deep soul searching regarding the way in which they have conducted their lives during the previous year.
Understanding the term “afflict your souls” to mean abstain from the ordinary pleasures of eating, those keeping this holy day will enjoy a final meal before sundown marking the start of Yom Kippur and refrain from eating or drinking again for the following 25 hours.
Apart from the individual’s intense self-scrutiny regarding his relationship with the Almighty, this is also a time for putting right broken relationships and resolving disputes with others.
© Israel My Beloved
