Jews fast on Yom Kippur because it is the Day of Atonement, a holy day dedicated to intense prayer, repentance, and seeking forgiveness from God and others. Fasting serves as a form of self-denial and spiritual purification, helping individuals reflect on their sins and draw closer to God by removing physical distractions such as hunger and thirst. The fast, lasting about 25 hours from sunset to nightfall the next day, is a mitzvah (commandment) rooted in the Torah, symbolizing atonement and sacrifice, and it is considered essential for true repentance to accompany fasting.
Spiritual Significance
- Fasting afflicts the soul as commanded in Leviticus, enabling a deep internal reckoning and awakening.
- It symbolizes sacrifice, akin to the biblical animal offerings, by diminishing the body’s desires and elevating the soul.
- The fast helps Jews emulate the state of angels who neither eat nor drink and reconnect with the purity of the Garden of Eden experience.
Historical and Communal Context
- The tradition dates back to biblical times, linked to the story of Moses seeking forgiveness for the Golden Calf incident.
- It has been maintained through Jewish history as a solemn, collective act of repentance and commitment to the faith.
- The majority of the day is spent in synagogue prayer, which supports fasting by focusing on spiritual matters and reflection.
Thus, fasting on Yom Kippur is not just a physical act but a profound spiritual discipline that externalizes repentance and atonement, preparing individuals for a fresh start after the Jewish New Year period.
