Archive for 2018
Text for Kaparot with Money
This post presents the Hebrew and English texts of the traditional Kaparot ceremony over money, in which the sins of a person are symbolically absolved through giving charity on the day before Yom Kippur.
Humanistic Yom Kippur Services
This post offers links to complete Yom Kippur services from Kahal B’raira, a congregation for Humanistic Judaism in Cambridge, MA. Inspired by both traditional Jewish texts and non-Jewish sources, these communal services contain songs,
What To Do the Day Before Yom Kippur
This introductory article from Chabad.org provides a brief overview of the mitzvot and rituals performed on the day before Yom Kippur, according to Orthodox custom, including the kaparot atonement ritual, making amends with people we may have
Where to Stream High Holiday Services Online
This article provides a list of non-denominational, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist and Renewal synagogues around the world that live-stream their High Holiday prayer services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Because the use of electricity is prohibited on
Tkhine of the Matriarchs for Yizkor
This “tkhine” (supplication) is a para-liturgical prayer in Yiddish with an English translation that is meant to be recited following the Yizkor Memorial service. The prayer beseeches God for mercy, blessing and compassion for
How to Observe Yom Kippur 2018
This introductory article from Chabad.org explains the history, customs and deep spiritual significance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. The article briefly outlines what to do (and not do!) before, during and after Yom Kippur,
A Yom Kippur Website for Children
This link will take you to an entire website dedicated to teaching children about Yom Kippur in a fun and interactive way. With holiday guides, videos, stories, games, and arts and crafts projects, this website
Tips for an Easy Fast
In this practical article from Judaism 101, the author, Tracey Rich, provides helpful tips to stay healthy during the Yom Kippur fast. Including suggestions for before and during the fast, this article suggests what types of
The History of Yom Kippur
This article from ReformJudaism.org presents the historical development of the focus and rituals of Yom Kippur, from its biblical origins as a day centered on the Temple services to a day focussing on
A Yom Kippur Glossary of Hebrew Terms
This glossary from ReformJudaism.org translates and explains many Hebrew words and phrases that one may come across over Yom Kippur, including traditional holiday greetings, biblical terminology, and words that appear throughout the liturgy.