Entering the High Holy Days: A Complete Guide to the History, Prayers, and Themes

by Reuven Hammer

The High Holy Days--Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur--are for many Jews the highlight of the Jewish year. The liturgy for the Days of Awe are the longest and most complex of the year, leaving a large number of attendees without a complete understanding of the occasion's significance.

Entering The High Holy Days provides historical background and interpretation of the ideas, practices, and liturgy and lends them contemporary relevance to today's Jews.

Genres: Judaism, Religion, Judaica, Jewish, Nonfiction, Spirituality

252 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2005

Reviews

[Margaret Klein · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a very helpful book for adding knowledge behind the prayers of the High Holiday season. While there is not much in terms of kavanot (intention), it does a great job in helping us understand the historical significance and context of many of the prayers. This was my second time reading the book. Initially I picked it up to better understand Seder Avodah. Then found I used it all the way through the season. For explaining Kol Nidre, Unetaneh Tokef, Yizkor, Eileh Ezcarah and Selichot. I did not read it from start to finish. Rather, I used it as questions came up about parts of the services. Very useful but dry. Perhaps too scholarly for a lay adult study class. Great notes at the end.

[Laurie Siegel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Modern interpretation of ancient customs

This was an excellent overview of the High Holidays-their meaning and history. It answers many of the questions that arise regarding why we carry out these customs.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Dmcconkey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this read very much. It gives the history of the High Holy Days: from Rosh Hoshanah until the Day of Atonement from Biblical times and how it has evolved till present days. It also gives a detailed of the order and composition of the services during these special days in the Jewish calendar. I highly recommend this book, one you will read and return to for reference often.

[Ben Kintisch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Time for yontif? Read this and you won't be so bored during High Holiday services. Or maybe less bored? No guarantees, but Hammer rules.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic guide to understanding and preparing for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. Best read with a machzor at your side for reference.