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Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is the holiest and most important day of the year in Judaism.

It begins this year at sunset on Wednesday 2 October and ends at nightfall on Friday 4 October, marking the last of the 10 days of repentance that began with Rosh Hashanah the Jewish New Year.

During this 10-day period, followers of Judaism reflect on their personal actions throughout the past year, show compassion and forgiveness towards others, and – on Yom Kippur itself – seek forgiveness from and reconciliation with God by atoning (making amends) for personal sins or wrongdoings.

Following a pre-Yom Kippur feast, those observing will usually fast from sunset the day before until the evening of Yom Kippur (around 25 hours), as well as attending synagogue prayer services throughout the day. As on Rosh Hashanah, the shofar – a trumpet made from a ram’s horn – is blown at the end of the last Yom Kippur service to signify the end of the fast.

We would like to wish a reflective and peaceful Yom Kippur to all DMU staff and students observing.

Find out more

If you are interested in learning more about Judaism locally, Leicester Hebrew Congregation (LHC) is a welcoming Jewish community with over 120 years of history and culture in our city. People of all faiths can attend the Visitors Centre for a guided tour with an ambassador. Further details and up-to-date information can be found on the .

Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation (LPJC) is a community for Jews of all backgrounds. Its religious practice is a blend of both traditional and modern interpretation of texts, and it actively participates in the multi-faith life in Leicester. Read more on the .