Topic

Jewish holiday questions

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur: Selichot, shofar in Elul, kapparot, Tashlich without a river, and the fast if you're pregnant, nursing or on medication.

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• What time do I have to stop eating before Yom Kippur?

  Eating stops before sunset on erev Yom Kippur. Most people finish earlier than that, to leave room for the pre-fast meal.

• When do Selichot start, and what are they?

  Selichot are the penitential prayers said before the High Holidays. When they begin depends on which day Rosh Hashanah falls, and on your community.

• Is shofar blown during Elul, and when?

  The shofar is blown every weekday morning through Elul, usually at the end of Shacharit, as preparation for the High Holidays.

• What is kapparot, and do I have to use a chicken?

  Kapparot is done before Yom Kippur, with a chicken or with money, often coins. Money is widely used and equally valid, and is given to charity.

• Besides not eating, what else is prohibited on Yom Kippur?

  Yom Kippur restricts more than food: eating, drinking, washing, lotions and oils, leather shoes, and marital relations.

• Can I do Tashlich if there is no river or lake near me?

  No river nearby does not mean no Tashlich. A pond, reservoir or well can work, and so can waiting for a later opportunity. Here are the options.

• What are the simanim (symbolic foods) eaten on Rosh Hashanah night?

  The simanim are the symbolic foods eaten on Rosh Hashanah night: apple and honey, pomegranate, dates and more. Which ones appear varies by family.

• What do I say when someone greets me on Rosh Hashanah?

  What to say back on Rosh Hashanah: Shanah Tovah, a good year, or Shanah Tovah Umetukah, a good and sweet year.

• I take daily medication. What do I do about it on Yom Kippur?

  If you take daily medication, Yom Kippur is a question for your doctor and your rabbi together: what the fast needs, and whether timing or form can change.

• What happens if Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat?

  When Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat, the services combine both — prayers carrying elements of the holiday and of Shabbat together.

• I'm pregnant (or nursing). Am I supposed to fast on Yom Kippur?

  Whether to fast while pregnant or nursing is decided with your doctor and your rabbi. Bring what the doctor says to the rabbi, and have it early.

• How do I ask someone for forgiveness before Yom Kippur?

  Asking forgiveness before Yom Kippur works best when it is specific and sincere: name the harm, say you regret it, and ask plainly.

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