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When, why Jewish people fast and proper greetings

When, why Jewish people fast and proper greetings
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Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement and a holy day in the Jewish calendar, begins on Friday. According to the American Jewish Committee, the holy day will cause Jewish people to engage in self-reflection and seek forgiveness for their wrongdoings. Here you can find out when Yom Kippur begins and how to greet your Jewish neighbors and loved ones on Yom Kippur.

When does Yom Kippur begin in 2024?

According to Chabad.org, Yom Kippur begins at sunset on Friday, October 11th.

When does Yom Kippur end?

According to Chabad.org, Yom Kippur will end at nightfall on Saturday, October 12th.

Why do you fast on Yom Kippur?

Jewish adults fast on Yom Kippur, although some people may forgo the fast for health reasons. This 25-hour fast of food and water offers those observing Yom Kippur a chance to reflect on their sins and repent, Time reported. According to Chabad.org, on Yom Kippur, Jewish people “rise above the physical reality of everyday life and focus exclusively on the spiritual.”

What do you say to someone on Yom Kippur?

Not sure how to greet someone celebrating Yom Kippur? According to Time, English speakers may wish this person “has an easy fast.” You can also wish someone a meaningful fast, USA TODAY reported. However, keep in mind that there are people who cannot fast on Yom Kippur for health reasons. A common greeting on Yom Kippur is “G'mar chatima tova,” or “May you be sealed in the book of life.” It refers to how a person's fate is decided on Rosh Hashanah and sealed on Yom Kippur, USA TODAY reported . Because the holy day is more solemn than celebratory, you should avoid saying anything like “Happy Yom Kippur.”

Paris Barraza is a featured reporter covering California news at The Desert Sun. Reach her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.

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