The Prayers of Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur starts at the sun down on the 10th day of Tishri (Hebrew Calendar), which this year lands on January 27th, 2009 and will end on January 28th at sunset.

"The name Yom Kippur means "Day of Atonement," and that pretty much explains what the holiday is. It is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year." On Yom Kippur, you pray for forgiveness because this day is, essentially, "your last appeal, your last chance to change the judgment, to demonstrate your repentance and make amends." (www.jewfaq.org)

With Yom Kippur being the most important of all Jewish holidays, it is important to know the prayers spoken on this day.

Here are the 5 main prayers that should be recited on Yom Kippur:

1. Kol Nidre - This prayer is sung on the eve of Yom Kippur. It is the first prayer of Yom Kippur. It is a prayer to ask for forgiveness for all of the unfulfilled promises of the past year. This prayer is sung 3 times in a row.

2. The Shema - Which means "We Believe in G-D." The second line "Blessed is the Name of His Glorious Kingdom forever and ever" is usually said softly. On Yom Kippur, this line is said aloud. The reason for this is that the second line is not in the Torah, while the first line is. The second line was said to have been spoken by the angels to Moshe on Mt. Sinai. Special for Yom Kippur, we strive to elevate our lives higher by fasting and repentant prayer, so we speak the line out loud." (www.life123.com)

3. Avinu Malkeinu -This prayer is used to plea to G-d for forgiveness for the year's sins.

4. Viduy - This prayer is made up of 2 different prayers, Al Cheit and Ashamnu. "Al Cheit asks forgiveness for many wrongdoings, and is listed in categories. Many people give their chest a little thump for each, reminding us that our hearts can guide us to do better." (www.life123.com)

5. Neilah - This is the last of the prayers spoken on Yom Kippur, it is said as plea of all of the prayers to have been accepted and everyone is then forgiven. At the end of their prayer, the shofar (a horn, traditionally that of a ram, used for Jewish religious purposes -www.wikipedia.com) is sounded loudly and everyone cheers and wishes each other a good year by saying ""L'Shanah Tovah."

Breaking the fast is one of the most special times when a family can get together and start their New Year fresh on a clean slate, with no sins. Jews celebrate this time by enjoying a large feast and lots of happiness!

Happy New Year!