Yom Kippur

The observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement or the Day of Awe, began on Friday evening. This day in the Jewish calendar is the most solemn. The day's origin lies deep in Israel's desert experience with the Golden Calf. The idolatrous people of God incurred God's judgment but received his forgiveness.

While the worshipper remembers Israel's great sin, he repents of his sin before the judgment of God is sealed. Therefore, the most sober day becomes joyful as well. God forgives our sin. The new year can now be whole and happy for the repentant sinner.

The ritual practices of this day include: the reading of the book of Jonah in its entirety, fasting from drink and bathing, and attending Kol Nidrei services at the synagogue. When the fast is broken, there is the eating of honey cake and a meal on the evening after (Yom Tov or "festival").

Following the festivities, attention is turned to the next holiday, Sukkot, which is observed for seven days beginning September 23. Sukkot is the Feast of Tabernacles.