A Look at Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur is, in short, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture.

It's also referred to as the Day of Atonement, and the tradition is to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (September 16 to October 8 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year.

According to the Jewish calendar, a holiday begins at sunset on the previous night.

This year on Tuesday, September 25, observing Jews will observe Yom Kippur at sunset, and Lindenhurst Schools will be closed on Wednesday, September 26.

Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a Jewish month, which is nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink the day before - once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services.

Then for almost 25 hours the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking and other restrictions.

After the fast another festive feast, or a yom tov, is customary.

To observe the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. However, there are a few staples that usually make their way onto the table.

One could try a honey cake, noodle kugel or a brisket.

Related:

• New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo Offers Thoughts about Rosh Hashanah
• A Look at Rosh Hashanah
• Rosh Hashanah: Joy and Reflection in a Time of Turmoil
• Video: 'L'Shanah Tovah:' A Rosh Hashanah Prayer