Yizkor

Jewish grave candle

Yizkor (יִזְכּוֹר‎, "remembrance") is a special Jewish memorial prayer for the deceased. The word "Yizkor" means "may [God] remember" and is derived from the Hebrew root "z-k-r," which means "to remember." The prayer is recited four times a year in the synagogue by those who have lost a parent or other close relatives.

Occasions for Recitation

Yizkor is recited on the following Jewish holidays:

• Yom Kippur
• Shemini Atzeret
• Passover (on the eighth day in the Diaspora, seventh day in Israel)
• Shavuot (on the second day in the Diaspora, first day in Israel)

Structure and Content

The Yizkor prayer includes a series of individual prayers for the deceased, each beginning with the word "Yizkor." The prayer asks God to remember the souls of the deceased and grant them eternal rest. It is customary to pledge charity in memory of the deceased as part of the Yizkor service.

Historical Background

The origins of Yizkor are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been instituted during the Middle Ages. The prayer was initially recited on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and later extended to other holidays.

Customs and Practices

• It is customary for those who have both parents alive to leave the synagogue during the recitation of Yizkor.
• Many communities have the custom of lighting a Yahrzeit candle in memory of the deceased before the Yizkor service.
• The prayer is often recited in a solemn and reflective atmosphere, with the congregation standing.

Significance

Yizkor serves as a moment for personal reflection and communal remembrance. It allows individuals to honor the memory of their loved ones and reinforces the connection between the living and the deceased within the Jewish community.

See Also

• Kaddish
• Yahrzeit
• Jewish prayer
• Mourning in Judaism