Yom Kippur 2025: Fasting & Services Explained
Day of Atonement (10 Tishrei 5786): When it begins and ends, how the fast works (and who’s exempt), and what to expect at synagogue—Kol Nidrei, Vidui, Yizkor, Neilah—plus greetings and tips.
When is Yom Kippur 2025?
All Jewish holidays begin at sundown and conclude at nightfall. Check your local community calendar for exact candle-lighting and fast-end times in your time zone.
What the day is about
Yom Kippur closes the Days of Awe, focusing on atonement, repair, and return. The mood is reflective and intense, with extended prayer, confession (Vidui), and a sense of communal responsibility and hope.
Fasting basics (and common exemptions)
- Traditional fast: No food or drink from sundown to nightfall the next day (about 25 hours).
- Who commonly doesn’t fast: People with health conditions, those who are pregnant or nursing, young children, and anyone for whom fasting is unsafe. Jewish law prioritizes pikuach nefesh (preserving life).
- Hydration/medication: Where permitted by rabbinic/medical guidance, take essential medicine and drink as directed.
- Other practices: Many refrain from leather shoes, perfume, and marital relations; customs vary by community.
Always follow your doctor’s guidance and your rabbi/community’s instructions.
Service overview: what to expect
- Kol Nidrei (evening): Iconic legal declaration/prayer that opens Yom Kippur; melodies are solemn and stirring.
- Morning service: Extended liturgy, Torah reading, and Yizkor (memorial) in many communities.
- Afternoon (Mincha): Reading from Jonah—themes of repentance and compassion.
- Neilah (closing): Final, climactic service before shofar; doors of the ark are often open; the last moments are intense and hopeful.
- Final shofar blast: Marks the end of the fast, followed by a simple break-fast (often dairy or light fare).
How to greet people
- “G’mar Chatimah Tovah” (גמר חתימה טובה) — “May you be sealed for good.”
- “Tzom Kal” — “Have an easy fast.”
- Simple English works too: “Wishing you a meaningful fast.”
Yom Kippur FAQs
Can I attend if I don’t know Hebrew?
Yes. Most synagogues offer translations and guidance. Many have tickets or registration—check ahead.
What should I wear?
Dress respectfully (business-casual or nicer). Some wear white as a symbol of purity; not required.
What if I can’t fast?
You can still observe the day through prayer, giving, and reflection. Speak to your rabbi and doctor—health comes first.
Always confirm local times (candle-lighting/fast end) with your synagogue or a trusted calendar in your time zone.
