Observe Yom Kippur 2012 In Renton

Yom Kippur is, in short, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture. It is 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 (Sept. 16 to Sept. 26 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. On Sept. 25, observation will begin at sunset.

Beit Tikvah, located just north of Renton, offers an Erev Yom Kippur service on Tuesday, September 25 at 7 p.m. in observance of The Day of Atonement.

On this day, the "focus is to examine ourselves, knowing that repentance brings refreshing," according to the Beit Tikvah blog. White clothing is traditionally worn on Erev Yom Kippur.

The Yom Kippur service will begin at noon on Wednesday, September 26 with Yiskor, remembering loved ones who have died this past year. There will be specific prayer topics each hour throughout the day until Ne’ilah at 6 p.m.

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

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively 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.

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