Kippur

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Kippur film

== Kippur ==

Kippur is a term that is most commonly associated with Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement. It is one of the most significant and solemn holidays in the Jewish calendar. The word "Kippur" itself is derived from the Hebrew root "K-P-R," which means "to atone" or "to cover."

Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur is observed on the 10th day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. It is a day dedicated to fasting, prayer, and repentance. The central themes of Yom Kippur are atonement and reconciliation. It is considered the holiest day of the year in Judaism.

Observance

The observance of Yom Kippur includes a 25-hour period of fasting and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services. The fast begins at sunset on the evening before Yom Kippur and ends after nightfall on the day of Yom Kippur. The day is marked by five prayer services: Maariv, Shacharit, Musaf, Mincha, and Neilah.

Customs

Several customs are associated with Yom Kippur, including wearing white clothing, which symbolizes purity, and refraining from wearing leather shoes. The Kol Nidre prayer, recited on the eve of Yom Kippur, is one of the most significant prayers of the day.

Other Uses of Kippur

While Yom Kippur is the most well-known use of the term, "Kippur" can also refer to other forms of atonement or purification rituals within Judaism. For example, the concept of "Kaparot" is a traditional Jewish ritual performed before Yom Kippur, involving the swinging of a chicken or money over one's head as a symbolic act of atonement.

Significance

The significance of Kippur in Jewish tradition cannot be overstated. It is a time for individuals to reflect on their actions over the past year, seek forgiveness from those they have wronged, and make amends. The goal is to start the new year with a clean slate, having been forgiven by both God and fellow human beings.

Related Topics

• Rosh Hashanah
• High Holy Days
• Teshuva
• Kol Nidre
• Neilah
• Hebrew calendar
• Judaism

See Also

• Jewish holidays
• Atonement in Judaism
• Fasting in Judaism