Tonight begins Yom Kippur, the sacred Day of Atonement in Judaism. As we embark on this solemn journey, grappling with the concept of atonement may be difficult. Yom Kippur urges us to contemplate, repent, and ask for forgiveness. The rituals and traditions of this holy day raise questions about their significance.
On this sacred day, there are five prescribed abstentions:
- Refrain from eating and drinking.
- Avoid wearing leather shoes.
- Abstain from bathing or washing.
- Do not anoint oneself with perfumes or lotions.
- Abstain from marital relations.
How do we interpret these abstentions?
Abstaining from routine activities such as eating, drinking, and social interactions holds symbolic significance within our spiritual practices. It allows us to seek a connection with the divine through sincere vulnerability. This state of being stripped down and solitary enables us to approach God authentically.
Fasting serves as a tangible expression of repentance and spiritual contemplation. Conversely, refraining from wearing leather shoes symbolizes humility before the divine. Additionally, abstaining from bathing, using perfumes or lotions, and engaging in marital relations underscores the prioritization of spiritual needs over physical comforts. Collectively, these abstentions create an atmosphere of solemnity, fostering deeper engagement in prayer and facilitating spiritual growth.
So, what is our directive?
During Yom Kippur, the Jewish community gathers in the synagogue to pray individually and connect with G-d. As a community, they confess their sins and seek forgiveness, even though G-d grants forgiveness individually. This forgiveness transforms a day of fear and solemnity into a festive occasion, as G-d establishes “at-one-ment” between humanity and Himself. In Hebrew, “Teshuva” signifies the annual opportunity to return to G-d by acknowledging one’s transgressions and seeking forgiveness. This is the essence of atonement.
Yom Kippur follows the model of the first day of G-d’s forgiveness when the Israelites received absolution for worshiping the golden calf in the desert while Moses ascended the mountain to receive the Heavenly Torah.
The Lord said to Moses: “I have seen these people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people. Now leave Me alone so that My anger may burn against them and consume them. Then I will make you into a great nation.”
Moses went back to the Lord and spoke:
“Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made gods of gold for themselves. Yet now, if You would only forgive their sin. But if not, please blot me out of the book that You have written.”*1
Thus began the initial real-life process of sin and reconciliation between G-d and the Children of Israel. Despite their transgressions, this path eventually led to ultimate reconciliation and forgiveness. The day of absolution came forty days later when Moses descended the mountain for the second time. On this occasion, G-d accepted the People’s remorse, and Moses presented the second set of Tablets, the Jewish covenant. This narrative serves as the foundational model for the observance of Yom Kippur.
Yom Kippur as a Framework for Reconciliation
Yom Kippur provides a framework for seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with G-d after significant missteps. Despite its fasting rituals, the day embodies not only solemnity but also joy, reconciliation, and the prospect of stepping into the future revitalized.
How does this transformation process happen?
I recently found a helpful video by Rabbi Manis Friedman explaining forgiveness and reconciliation. He discusses two types of forgiveness. The first is natural forgiveness, where you forgive someone who has hurt you to let go of the pain. However, this may not restore the relationship to its previous state.
The second type is forgiveness of reconciliation, occurring when the wrongdoer admits their mistake and genuinely seeks forgiveness. This type can lead to significant change, as realizing the person’s importance in your life can soften your heart. You can watch the video from 9:12 to 20:28 min here.
Moreover, I’ve realized how important this insight is for addressing the struggles of Indigenous and black communities facing historical racism. The complexities surrounding “apologies” make these challenges even more intricate.
Are these apologies genuinely sincere?
This question arises when we receive an apology, and it is not always easy to answer. There are two types of apologies: a simple “I’m sorry” without any commitment to change, and the second, where the person acknowledges their past wrongs and promises to make things right. This second type is more meaningful, as it brings about justice and helps in reconciliation, leading to a deeper mutual understanding and stronger relationships than before.
Embracing the Lessons of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur exemplifies the power of self-reflection, repentance, and the journey to forgiveness. It offers a timeless framework that resonates deeply with our contemporary struggles for justice and healing. As we navigate the complexities of forgiveness, may we draw inspiration from the rituals of this sacred day, embracing the potential for personal and communal transformation. By acknowledging our shortcomings and committing to meaningful change, we can foster deeper connections and a more compassionate world.
Footnote:
- www.biblehub.com