Kaparot

As Yom Kippur approaches, many Jewish communities observe the ancient tradition of Kaparot, a meaningful custom connected with repentance, reflection and charity.

Kaparot is traditionally performed on the day before Yom Kippur, usually in the early morning hours. A chicken is traditionally held and gently moved over a person’s head three times while a special prayer is recited, expressing the hope that any difficult decree should be transformed into blessing and a good, healthy year.

The chicken is then given to a person in need, or its monetary value is donated to charity. Today, many people choose to perform Kaparot using money, which is then given to charity.

The custom reminds us that the days leading up to Yom Kippur are a time to look inward, ask for forgiveness, improve ourselves and remember those who are less fortunate.

Kaparot is not a sacrifice and does not replace repentance or prayer. Rather, it is a traditional custom that encourages us to enter Yom Kippur with a renewed sense of responsibility, compassion and faith.

May we all be blessed with a year of health, peace, happiness and abundant blessings.

G’mar Chatimah Tovah

To donate and to read the prayer recited during Kaparot, click here