Aim

To consider the meaning of Yom Kippur

Lesson

Begin by reviewing what was taught in the previous lesson about the ten days of repentance. The Tenth Day is called Yom Kippur and is the holiest day of the Jewish year.

Yom Kippur means the Day of Atonement. The word 'atonement' can be broken down to read 'at-one-ment.' Jews believe Yom Kippur offers them a chance each year to be 'at one' with God.

Use video, images, or text to describe the celebration of Yom Kippur.

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could

• write their own recipe for being 'at one' with God
• interview a Jewish visitor about being 'at one' with God
• find out about the scape goat
• write about examples of 'scapegoating'
• write a description of the Yom Kippur festival for a younger child
• research the practice of fasting in other religions.