Preparing for the Yamim Noraim As fall approaches, Jews throughout the world prepare for a unique ten-day period of prayer, self-examination, fasting, and repentance. It is time for the Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe, the High Holy Days: Rosh HaShanah andYom Kippur. These holidays are preceded by a month of reflection: the Hebrew month of Elul. During this time, morning worship includes special penitential prayers and concludes with the blowing of the shofar as a reminder of the approaching season of atonement. In some communities, this is also a time to visit the graves of loved ones.
S'lichot
S'lichot, means "forgiveness" in Hebrew and refers to the special penitential prayers recited by Jews during the High Holy Days, including some of the finest Jewish religious poetry ever composed. Reform congregations usually observe S’lichot on the Saturday night just prior to Rosh HaShanah, a solemn and fitting preparation for ten days of reflection and self-examination.
Rosh HaShanah
Rosh HaShanah (literally, "Head of the Year") is the celebration of the Jewish New Year, observed on the first day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. It marks the beginning of a ten-day period of prayer, self-examination and repentance, culminating on the fast day of Yom Kippur. Customs include the sounding of the shofar, using round challah, and eating apples and honey for a sweet new year.
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, the "Day of Atonement", is the annual Jewish observance of fasting, prayer and repentance, considered to be the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. In three separate passages in the Torah, the Jewish people are told, "the tenth day of the seventh month is the Day of Atonement. It shall be a sacred occasion for you: You shall practice self-denial." (Leviticus 23:27). Fasting is seen as fulfilling this biblical commandment.
The URJ suggests that when space allows, members of URJ congregations in good standing who will be traveling during the High Holy Days be welcomed to worship at fellow URJ and WUPJ congregations. Please note that High Holy Day seating is based on the discretion of the host congregation and is not intended as URJ policy. These forms are to be completed by the visiting congregation and submitted directly to the destination congregation. Further instructions are on each form. Any additional information, including verification of an individual’s good standing and confirmation of seating availability, is to be communicated directly between the visiting and host congregations.
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Many congregations take out print advertisements prior to the High Holy Days. With our three new ads, your congregation will definitely stand out. Whether your ads are in the secular or Jewish press, readers will notice these! Find out how to order them.
This video outlines the ancient origin, evolution, symbols, and traditions of the High Holy Days. It is a useful tool for families, libraries, schools, and anyone interested in the beauty of our Jewish heritage.
Introduce your child to the symbols and themes of the High Holy Days and Jewish autumn festivals. The High Holy Days is the fifth in the series of Jewish holiday board books by Camille Kress.
A comprehensive High Holy Days resource for solo voice and accompaniment, with more than 300 pieces. A necessary source for all congregations, cantors, cantorial soloists, etc.
A Faithful Heart takes the reader on a spiritual journey into the fascinating text Maaseh Avraham Avinu, a compilation of the midrashic sources about Abraham, the first acknowledged Jew.
HaShanah
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