ב"ה
At the very beginning of Yom Kippur, before Kol Nidrei, we declare: “With the sanction of the
Omnipresent, and with the sanction of the congregation, by authority of the Heavenly Court, and by authority of the earthly court, we hereby grant permission to pray with those who have transgressed.” All agree that on this day, there are no differences between Jews; they all stand united as one in the presence of G-d.
Why is fasting more important than praying on Yom Kippur?
The purpose of fasting on Yom Kippur is to induce a contrite and humbled heart before the Supreme Judge. If so, why if one falls weak fasting and cannot properly repent and pray, is he to nevertheless complete the fast, even if it entails sleeping through Neilah?! This class will reveal the essence of Yom Kippur, resolving this and other paradoxes of the holiest day of the year. (Based on Likutei Sichos volumes 3, 29 and 32.)
A Message of Unconditional Love
During Temple times, atonement on Yom Kippur was achieved through the once-a-year unique ritual of the offerings of the identical goats. However, each individual was obligated to personally repent for the sacrifices to be effective. In addition, Maimonides rules that the very day of Yom Kippur affords – then and now – atonement with the provision that the individual 'returns'. This class will explain all four components: 1) the sacrifice, 2) repentance, 3) the contribution of Yom Kippur and, 4) the meaning of 'return'. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 27)
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