Yom Kippur, celebrated this year on September 24 at dusk and all day on September 25, is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish community. It is the only day in which all of Israel, even those less linked to religion, stop their activities for a day.
On this day, even those who do not have a direct connection with religion understand the essence of the holiday: forgiveness, the willingness to forgive and the importance of knowing how to forgive. The Jewish people have the peculiarity of accepting all their members, regardless of their religious beliefs, including those who consider themselves atheists, those who choose not to participate or those who question divine beliefs. On Yom Kippur, we remind ourselves and reaffirm that we do not want to lose or segregate anyone for their ideals, with forgiveness we all contribute.
During this festive day, from a solemn atmosphere, without revelry, all the thoughts and currents of Judaism come together to forgive and reflect on forgiveness towards others. Yom Kippur means "Day of Atonement", seeking reconciliation with oneself and, through this, with G‑d, promoting collective forgiveness among ourselves and with others.
During these 26 hours, we observe fasting, which is a symbolic act of stripping ourselves of energy and connecting with self-sacrifice, representing our willingness to accept any challenge or adversity.
During this period we also refrain from showering for pleasure, except for basic hygiene needs. We avoid the use of perfumes and personal care creams and marital relations are suspended. According to Kabbalah, forgiveness is experienced as a unique pleasure when releasing resentments and grudges, which is why on this day there is no room for other pleasures. This experience reflects self-compassion and can lead to deep satisfaction and emotional release. Ultimately, forgiveness is an experience of self-transcendence and personal growth that promotes individual well-being and harmony in the community.
During Yom Kippur, Jewish communities gather in synagogues to pray and recite special prayers, beginning with "Kol Nidrei," which cancels promises and releases emotional burdens and moral debts, inviting us to reflect on our actions, recognize our mistakes and ask for forgiveness from those we have hurt.
The festival culminates with "Neilá", a service that seeks points of balance in our encounter with ourselves reflected in seven values: authenticity, respect, integrity, self-care, growth, empowerment and, finally, clarity, that allows us to visualize a future. It is the result of having balanced emotions and learning to renew forgiveness, both individually and collectively.
Yom Kippur is a holiday that promotes introspection and has deep significance, reflecting the fundamental values of Judaism.
At the end of this intense day, we share happiness and joy because we feel renewed and ready for a new year full of success.
