rules of Yom Kippur

Every Yom Kippur I fast.  Admittedly, part of the reason is guilt, and the other part is fear of what could happen if I didn’t.

The Torah says we should “afflict” ourselves on Yom Kippur as a way to demonstrate regret for our past misdeeds.  This means avoiding any pleasures and luxuries. 

At one point in the day I am thirsty.  So I google, “Can you drink water on Yom Kippur” and see that you cannot.  But I also learn a few other things.

No eating or drinking for 25-hours ­­— sundown to nightfall (I always thought it was 24 hours).

No showering or bathing, but it is okay to wash one’s hands before exiting a bathroom.

No leather footwear.  Any other leather is perfectly fine to wear.

No ointment, lotions, creams or perfume.

No creative activities.

I realize I’ve broken every “rule” except the first. And probably more.  Though they're not listed, it's a pretty safe bet that waxings and manicures are also forbidden on Yom Kippur.

Around 4:30, I take a train to Rye and break fast with my family:  Val, Abbey, Adam, Jill (with her husband and two kids), and Rita.  I notice that everyone appears to have showered, are wearing leather shoes, smell fine, and are telling stories injected with humor and creativity.  I am not alone.