Yom Kippur
The Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism, a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance. Jews seek forgiveness and spiritual renewal.
About Yom Kippur
The Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism, a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance. Jews seek forgiveness and spiritual renewal.
History & origins
Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism and the Day of Atonement, rooted in the Torah’s command to observe it on the tenth day of the seventh month. Its biblical origins go back to ancient Israel, where atonement was tied to Temple ritual; after the Second Temple’s destruction in 70 CE, the focus shifted to prayer, repentance, and fasting. Today it is observed worldwide by Jewish communities as the climax of the Ten Days of Repentance between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
Why it matters
Yom Kippur gives Jews a structured time for teshuvah, or repentance, making amends, and spiritual renewal. It also shapes communal life: many synagogues are full, workplaces and schools may adjust schedules, and even many less observant Jews treat the day as a meaningful annual pause for reflection.
How to celebrate
Observe a 25-hour fast. Attend Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur services. Seek forgiveness from others. Engage in self-reflection. Wear white as a symbol of purity. Break fast with loved ones.
Facts
- Yom Kippur means 'Day of Atonement'
- It's the holiest day of the Jewish year
- Observant Jews fast for 25 hours
- The holiday concludes with a final shofar blast
- Many non-religious Jews observe Yom Kippur
Upcoming dates
- Friday, October 2, 2026
- Saturday, October 2, 2027
- Monday, October 2, 2028
- Tuesday, October 2, 2029
- Wednesday, October 2, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Yom Kippur in 2026?
Yom Kippur in 2026 begins at sunset on Thursday, October 1, and ends after nightfall on Friday, October 2. The main day is Friday, October 2, 2026.
What is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur is the Jewish Day of Atonement and the holiest day of the Jewish year. It is centered on fasting, prayer, repentance, and seeking forgiveness.
Who started Yom Kippur?
No single founder started Yom Kippur; it comes from biblical commandments in the Torah. The holiday developed in ancient Israel and later took its current prayer-centered form after the Temple period ended.
How do people celebrate Yom Kippur?
Many Jews observe a 25-hour fast, attend Kol Nidre and other synagogue services, and spend the day in reflection and confession. A common custom is to break the fast with family or friends after nightfall.
Is Yom Kippur only observed by religious Jews?
No, many non-religious and culturally Jewish people also observe Yom Kippur in some way. It is widely treated as a day of personal and communal significance, even by Jews who do not regularly attend synagogue.
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