For Yom Kippur, appropriate greetings to say to someone include phrases that convey good wishes for the solemn and reflective nature of the day. Common and respectful greetings are:
- "Gmar Chatima Tovah" (Hebrew: גמר חתימה טובה) meaning "May you be sealed for a good year" or "A good final sealing," referring to the belief that one's fate is sealed in the Book of Life on this day.
- "Tzom Kal" (Hebrew: צום קל) which means "an easy fast," acknowledging the challenging fast observed on Yom Kippur.
- "Gmar Tov," meaning "a good end," wishing a positive sealing for the year.
- In English, you can say "Have a meaningful fast," "Wishing you a meaningful Yom Kippur," or "May you be sealed for goodness in the Book of Life."
It is important not to say "Happy Yom Kippur" because the day is a solemn occasion of atonement rather than celebration. If greeting someone who is not fasting, "Yom Tov" (Hebrew for "good day" or "festive day") or "Have a good holy day" is appropriate. In summary, the most traditional and widely accepted phrases are "Gmar Chatima Tovah" and "Tzom Kal," along with thoughtful wishes for a meaningful fast or a good seal for the coming year.
