Sunday, September 27, 2009

The Origins of Kol Nidre: A Yom Kippur Message from Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

This evening we will all stand in Shul and recite the Kol Nidre prayer before we begin Maariv. The melody of the tefila is memorable and moving, but the actual text of the prayer is puzzling. Kol Nidre serves to free us from any vows and obligations we have taken upon ourselves and have not fulfilled; it does not seem to be much of a prayer, let alone a prayer to start off the holiest day of the year.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks explains the possible origins of the Kol Nidre in an eloquent and moving Yom Kippur message, posted on the Chief Rabbi's website. You may access the video by clicking here.
Gmar Chatimah Tovah.

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