A 2008 Israeli study concluded that Jews see Yom Kippur in many
different ways, but three perspectives were most prevalent. Some
view Yom Kippur as an extremely holy day for atonement and for
restoring their relationship with God. Some consider it a day of
serious contemplation and self-examination. Some see it as a
“day of rest at home.” Although views on the holiday itself
differ, a majority of Jews are likely to attend some sort of
celebratory “break-fast” meal. It is often traditional to begin
the meal with salty foods, such as herring. The reason?
According to “The Jewish Book of Why,” Jews do not drink water
during the fast and the salt encourages them to add fluids to
their body. For dessert, honey and sweet fruits symbolize the
hope for a happy life this New Year. Ilene Spector is a local
free-lance writer who writes a monthly Food Talk column and a
twice-monthly cooking column for the BALTIMORE JEWISH TIMES.