Yom Kippur

General Practices

Fasting from before sundown until after sunset, and lighting of the Yahrzeit memorial candle at sundown on the night of Yom Kippur. Wear white clothing as a symbol of purity and clean state, completely abstain from food and water for 25 hours, spend a majority of the day in the synagogue in extended prayer while seeking forgivness and confession of sins. The day finished with the Neilah service which is a highly emotional peak followed by a resonant blast of the ram's horn (shofar).

Description

Yom Kippur is often considered the holiest day of the year for Jews, and the day is dedicated to atonement and abstinence. It's on the 10th day of the Jewish month Tishrei. It ends the Ten Days of Repentance following Rosh Hashanah.

Recommended Accommodations

Avoid scheduling important academic deadlines, events, or activities on this date and after a day of fasting.