Return to Rosh Hashanah Background
Yom Kippur falls 10 days after Rosh Hashanah – on the 10th of the month of Tishrei. The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is often referred to as the “Days of Awe” or “Days of Atonement.” It is a time to reflect on the past year and recognize what we need to do better during the upcoming year.
Kol Nidrei is the name of a liturgical piece that is chanted (traditionally three times) during the Yom Kippur evening service. It is also the name for the evening service on Yom Kippur.
Some Jews fast on the holiday. The Bible (Leviticus 23:27) includes this commandment, and many people have chosen to observe it and explain that it should be a holiday of thinking, not of comfort. Yet, many modern Jews find the day more comfortable when they have eaten and are thus better able to focus on the holiday. The meal at the end of Yom Kippur is usually called the Break Fast to signify that people who have fasted are now going to start eating again.
Continue to High Holiday Discussion Ideas for Families with Children
