| In Brief | The first ten days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei are known as the Ten Days of Repentance (or Penitence). These days begin with Rosh Hashanah and culminate in the Day of Atonement - Yom Kippur.
According to our sages, this time of year is the most appropriate for soul searching and atonement (Rosh Hashanah 18a): While Rosh Hashanah is traditionally the day on which God opens the Book of Life, this book is only "sealed" on Yom Kippur. So, of course, it follows that the intermediate period is particularly timely for self reflection.
| Customs | How is this solemn period in the calendar reflected in Jewish custom?
The term "king" is inserted into various blessings found in the regular prayers.
Petitions for mercy and inscription in the Book of Life are also added in the Amidah (standing) prayer.
The Avinu Malkeinu prayer is added to the daily prayers. This a litany of 22 petitions, the source of which is ascribed to the renowned Rabbi Akiva (50-135 CE). It is recited daily (except Shabbat).
Special penitential prayers, selichot, are intoned early in the morning before the morning prayers.
The word le'eylah, signifying "exaltation" in Hebrew, is repeated in the well-known prayer, the Kaddish.
Of course, one does not only have to resort to fixed prayers and customs. This is the time to spend more energy devoted to good deeds of all sorts, from the study of Jewish texts to helping one's fellows. The very devout also undertake personal fasts during this period.
According to our sages, this time of year is the most appropriate for soul searching and atonement (Rosh Hashanah 18a): While Rosh Hashanah is traditionally the day on which God opens the Book of Life, this book is only "sealed" on Yom Kippur. So, of course, it follows that the intermediate period is particularly timely for self reflection.
