For Yom Kippur, appropriate greetings focus on the solemn and reflective nature of the day rather than celebration. Common and respectful things to say include:
- In Hebrew, "Gmar Chatima Tovah" (גמר חתימה טובה), meaning "a good final sealing," expressing a wish that the person's fate is sealed for good in the Book of Life.
- "Tzom Kal" (צום קל), meaning "an easy fast," which acknowledges the observance of fasting.
- "Gmar Tov" for a shortened form of "a good sealing."
- In English, you can say "Have an easy fast," "Wishing you a meaningful Yom Kippur," or "May you be sealed for a good year."
- It is not appropriate to say "Happy Yom Kippur" since the day is one of atonement and solemn reflection, unlike joyous holidays.
Other general Jewish holiday greetings that can be used include "Shana Tova," meaning "a good year," used throughout the High Holy Days season. These greetings show respect for the spiritual significance of Yom Kippur and are warmly received by those observing it.
