Today is the Jewish feast day of Yom Kippur or “Day of Atonement”.

Regarding the Day of Atonement, Moses commanded: “You shall afflict yourselves” (Lev 23:27). Orthodox Jews obey this injunction by keeping a twenty-five hour fast from all food, drink, and sexual relations. This is the only fast day mandated by the Law of Moses. It begins one hour before sundown and extends to sundown the following day. You might also see contemporary Jews wearing canvas tennis shoes on this day since it seems presumptuous to ask God for mercy when standing in the shoes made from a slaughtered animal.

Continue reading: The Theology of Yom Kippur.