Yom Kippur
t w o  o b j e c t s

The second holiday of the High Holy Days is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement occurring on the 10th of Tishri. It is a day of fasting and repentance that concludes the Ten Days of Penitence. It is the holiest day in the liturgical year. The sacred service begins with the recitation of Kol Nidrei. Though not formally a prayer, it has become the most beloved ritual of the Day of Atonement. It is a liturgy said by the worshipers to renounce all personal vows and oaths to God made unwittingly during the year. The recitation must begin in daylight and continue until sunset. For this reason, it is the custom to repeat Kol Nidrei three times. The solemnity is symbolized by the white garment worn by some groups of observant Jews; it is called a kitel . Of loosely cut white cloth, it is held together with a cloth belt. The color white expresses humility as does the absence of leather shoes (comfort). A special prayer book named a mahzor contains the ritual for Rosh Ha-Shanah, Yom Kippur, and the Pilgrim festivals.