Yom Kippur

The Pathology of Sin: Yom Kippur Yizkor Sermon, 5763/2002

A Jew by Any Name: A Story for Elul

A Yom Kippur Sermon

Mysterious Customs of the High Holidays

What is Yom Kippur?
  1. The day Moses received the ten commandments, the second time. Israel was fully forgiven that day.
  2. The only day on which a representative of Israel can enter the holy of holies. It is the day we are closest to G-d.
  3. The day on which we can get close to G-d due to the fact that he forgives us, or at least overlooks our sins that day.
  4. The time of repentance for all.

The Stages of Repentance

Rabbi Jonah of Gerona, Spain, 13th century, writes that the stages are as follows; deep remorse, turning away from the sin, painful regret, worry of recurrence, confession to G-d, shame for the past, modesty, humility, improving one’s deeds, understanding the gravity of the sins, prayer for atonement, prayer that G-d help not to return to this path, redressing the wrongs done, pursuing charity and kindness, and helping others repent.