From Friday evening, October 11, to Saturday evening, October 12, those who practice Judaism all around the world will observe Yom Kippur, one of the High Holy Days on the Jewish calendar. It is commonly called the Day of Atonement, spoken of in Leviticus 23:27. As a biblical day of observance, Christians may find themselves curious about its significance and relevance to their faith.
The Stand spoke to Dr. Baruch Korman, radio host and senior lecturer at the Zera Avraham Institute in Israel, who offered valuable insights into this holy day and its connections to Christian theology.
“Yom Kippur has a deeper meaning rooted in its original Hebrew name,” he explained. “In Leviticus 23:27, it’s actually called Yom HaKippurim, meaning ‘Day of Atonements.’ This plural form reflects the multiple aspects of atonement addressed on this sacred day rather than a single, general atonement.”
He went on to say that Yom Kippur is part of a series of festivals known as Moedim. The Hebrew word Moed is often translated as “appointed time,” but it also contains the root word for “destination.” This suggests that these God-given festivals, as recorded in Scripture, are designed to guide us toward a specific spiritual destination.
“The apostle Paul, in Colossians 2:16-17, refers to these festivals as ‘a shadow of things to come,’” said Korman. “Many Christian scholars interpret this as alluding to the coming kingdom of God. Therefore, Yom Kippur, along with the other festivals, carries profound implications for understanding God’s kingdom and His plan for humanity.”
Atonement versus redemption
Understanding the concept of atonement is crucial to grasping the significance of Yom Kippur.
Korman explained, “The Hebrew word Kippur is simply the word for ‘a covering.’ So, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, should never be understood as a removal of sin. It’s simply a temporary covering of sin.”
As Korman clarified, this temporary nature of atonement contrasts with the Christian concept of redemption.
He said, “Redemption is different because it eradicates sin. It doesn’t just cover it up, hide it, or conceal it. Redemption eradicates sin and thereby removes any need for punishment or judgment.”
Modern Yom Kippur observance
The observance of Yom Kippur has evolved significantly from ancient times to modern practice, according to Korman.
“In Judaism,” he said, “there are two distinct Torahs. The first is the Written Torah, also known as the Law of Moses, which is found in the Bible. The second is often referred to as Torah d’rabbanan or ‘rabbinical law.’ In Orthodox Judaism, there’s a belief that without the temple in Jerusalem, it’s impossible to fully observe the Written Torah as prescribed in the biblical text. As a result, rabbinical law has become the primary guide for religious observance.”
Korman explained that when someone asks a Jewish person today if they are “Torah observant,” it’s generally understood that they’re referring to adherence to rabbinical laws rather than strict biblical commandments. These rabbinical laws differ significantly from the original Mosaic laws in many aspects.
Korman outlined three main ways that Yom Kippur is observed in modern Orthodox Judaism:
- During the holy day, monetary donations can serve as a form of
atonement, demonstrating remorse and a desire to make amends for sins. - Some Orthodox communities perform Kapparot, a ritual involving swinging a chicken overhead three times as a symbolic transfer of sins. The chicken is then often donated to the poor.
- Yom Kippur also involves an extensive prayer service lasting nearly 24 hours. These prayers are believed to atone for sins, with some stating that the day itself has the power to cleanse transgressions.
“This shift in practice is particularly evident in the concept of atonement,” continued Korman. “Without a high priest, the holy of holies, or a sacrificial altar, the Old Testament rituals for atonement can’t be performed as described in the Torah. Nevertheless, the concept of atonement remains central in Jewish thought and practice, albeit in modified forms as prescribed by rabbinical tradition.”
Christ fulfills Yom Kippur
According to Korman, the symbolism of Yom Kippur finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
“In Colossians, Paul refers to various Old Testament practices as ‘a shadow of things to come.’ These include the Sabbath, religious festivals, dietary laws, and new moon celebrations, among many other traditions. The book of Hebrews distinguishes between two types of priesthoods: the Levitical priesthood and the order of Melchizedek,” Korman said.
“The author of Hebrews argues that the Melchizedek priesthood is superior for many reasons,” said Korman. “Firstly, Melchizedek’s name in Hebrew means ‘king of righteousness.’ Secondly, unlike Levitical priests who offered sacrifices from man to God, Melchizedek blessed Abraham on God’s behalf. Lastly, Christ’s priesthood, as part of the order of Melchizedek, is eternal, unlike the temporary Levitical system.”
Korman pointed out the critical difference: The Levitical priesthood foreshadowed righteousness, while Christ, as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, embodies and ministers righteousness directly. This makes Christ’s priesthood superior and more effective in bringing people into right relationship with God.
Yom Kippur and the gospel
For Christians seeking to engage respectfully with their Jewish friends about Yom Kippur, Korman suggested starting with Leviticus 16, the primary biblical text for the day.
“Leviticus 16, which focuses on Yom Kippur, begins with a stark reminder of sin through the story of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron’s sons,” he said. “Their transgression of offering unauthorized fire before the Lord underscores a crucial point: Their sin was improper worship. This chapter, read in synagogues on Yom Kippur, emphasizes the importance of worshipping God according to His revelation, not human convenience or preference.”
Korman explained that the text then explores the concept of the high priest being anointed in his father’s stead, drawing parallels to the Messiah.
“Interestingly, Scripture refers to the Messiah as the Redeemer rather than an atoner, highlighting the superiority of redemption over atonement. The Hebrew word for Messiah denotes one anointed by the Father to fulfill the Father’s purpose,” he said.
Korman added that the biblical concept of sonship is also significant, encompassing both servanthood and heirship. The Messiah serves the Father by completing His work and glorifying Him, ultimately inheriting everything from the Father.
“Daniel 7:13-14 illustrates this,” said Korman, “describing the Son of Man receiving honor, glory, and worship from all peoples. This understanding provides a biblical basis for not only honoring but worshipping our Great High Priest. The ultimate purpose of Yom Kippur is to position us for worship, fulfilling our created purpose. Being created in God’s image means reflecting His character, which is an outcome of worship. As we draw near to God in worship, we are transformed, becoming more like Him in purpose and character.”
(Digital Editor's Note: This article was published first in the October 2024 print edition of The Stand. Click HERE for a free six-month subscription.)
