Definition: Selichot, which literally means forgiveness, are a series of penitential prayers recited in preparation for Judaism's High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
God's "Thirteen Attributes of Mercy" are a central theme throughout the prayers. These attributes derive from God's explanation to Moses, following the sin of the Golden Calf, of His system for relating with the world.
Merciful God, merciful God, powerful God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in kindness and truth. Preserver of kindness for thousands of generations, forgiver of iniquity, willful sin and error, and Who cleanses. (Exodus 34:6-7)
Selichot are recited daily, beginning the Saturday night before Rosh Hashana and continuing through Yom Kippur. If Rosh Hashana falls on Monday or Tuesday, then Selichot begins 10 days prior, on Saturday night. If Rosh Hashana falls later in the week, then Selichot begins the Saturday night just prior to Rosh Hashana.
God's "Thirteen Attributes of Mercy" are a central theme throughout the prayers. These attributes derive from God's explanation to Moses, following the sin of the Golden Calf, of His system for relating with the world.
Merciful God, merciful God, powerful God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in kindness and truth. Preserver of kindness for thousands of generations, forgiver of iniquity, willful sin and error, and Who cleanses. (Exodus 34:6-7)
Selichot are recited daily, beginning the Saturday night before Rosh Hashana and continuing through Yom Kippur. If Rosh Hashana falls on Monday or Tuesday, then Selichot begins 10 days prior, on Saturday night. If Rosh Hashana falls later in the week, then Selichot begins the Saturday night just prior to Rosh Hashana.
