As outlined in the Book of Leviticus, the 10th day of the 7th month (Tishrei) is Yom Hakippurim (יום הכיפורים), the Day of Atonement, as the verse states, “For on this day He will forgive you, to purify you, that you be cleansed from all your sins before G‑d.”1 In common parlance, it is often truncated to Yom Kippur (יום כיפור).

Read: What Is Yom Kippur?

From the evening of the 9th of the month until nightfall the following day, no work should be done and we “afflict ourselves,” the verse instructs.2 This affliction includes fasting, not wearing leather shoes, not applying lotions or washing, and eschewing conjugal relations.

Read: How to Celebrate Yom Kippur

The day’s unique Temple service is described in detail.3 The primary service is performed by the High Priest, who wears a special white linen uniform. Highlights include bringing incense into the Holy of Holies, performing a lottery over two goats—one of which is sacrificed in the Temple and the other sent to Azazel—and sprinkling blood in various places.