History of Yom Kippur in Timeline

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in Judaism, observed on the 10th of Tishrei (late September/early October). It's a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance, devoted to seeking forgiveness for sins committed during the past year. Observant Jews spend the day in synagogue, reciting special prayers and abstaining from work, food, and drink. The holiday culminates in the Neilah service, marking the symbolic closing of the gates of repentance. Yom Kippur emphasizes introspection and reconciliation with God and fellow humans, aiming for spiritual renewal and a fresh start.

1934: Hank Greenberg Refuses to Play on Yom Kippur

In 1934, Hank Greenberg, a Baseball Hall of Famer, made headlines when he refused to play on Yom Kippur, even though his Detroit Tigers were competing for the pennant. Greenberg received a standing ovation from the congregation when he arrived at synagogue on Yom Kippur.

1965: Sandy Koufax Refuses to Play on Yom Kippur

In 1965, Sandy Koufax, a Hall of Fame pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, chose not to play in Game 1 of the World Series because it fell on Yom Kippur. His decision drew national attention and highlighted the tension between social expectations and personal religious beliefs.

1967: Latest Date Yom Kippur Can Fall

In 1967, Yom Kippur fell on October 14, the latest date possible according to the Gregorian calendar.

1973: Start of the Yom Kippur War

In 1973, on Yom Kippur, air raid sirens sounded in Israel, and radio broadcasts announced a surprise attack by Egypt and Syria, marking the beginning of the Yom Kippur War.

2013: Earliest Date Yom Kippur Can Fall

In 2013, Yom Kippur fell on September 14, the earliest date possible according to the Gregorian calendar.

2013: Fasting intentions on Yom Kippur

In 2013, a survey indicated that 73% of Jewish people in Israel intended to fast on Yom Kippur, reflecting the holiday's significance in Israeli society. It is also customary to wish others "Tsom Kal" or "Tsom Mo'il" before Yom Kippur, regardless of their fasting intentions.

2016: United Nations Officially Recognizes Yom Kippur

In 2016, the United Nations officially recognized Yom Kippur, ensuring no official meetings would occur on that day. The UN also designated Yom Kippur as one of its floating holidays, marking the first time the organization formally recognized a Jewish holiday.