As Yom Kippur Begins: A Prayer for Life, Peace, and Courage
Tonight we enter Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement — a time of prayer, reflection, and renewal.
On this sacred night, we pray to be sealed in the Book of Life for peace, health, and blessing. We ask for the strength to face challenges, the wisdom to walk in truth, and the courage to defend life, which is itself a sacred mitzvah.
May this Yom Kippur bring forgiveness, resilience, and hope.
G’mar Chatima Tovah — may you and all Israel be inscribed for blessing, life, and peace.
A Yom Kippur Prayer in a Time of Danger
Avinu Malkeinu, our Father, our King,
We stand before You on this Day of Atonement,
With trembling hearts and broken spirits.
Remember us for life, O King who desires life,
And write us in the Book of Life,
For Your sake, O living God.
Shield us from the hands of our enemies,
From those who rise up against us to destroy us.
As it is written: “Behold, the Guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps.”
Spread over us Your shelter of peace,
Guide our leaders with wisdom,
Strengthen the hands of those who defend our people,
And deliver us from all evil decrees.
Forgive our failings, cleanse our hearts,
Turn us back to You in truth and wholeness.
As in the days of our ancestors, redeem us again with mercy,
For we have no King but You.
Avinu Malkeinu, be gracious to us and answer us,
Though we have little merit.
Save us through Your great compassion.
Write us and all Israel for blessing, life, and peace.
May this Yom Kippur bring you strength, meaning, and peace. G’mar Chatima Tovah.
Doris Wise, Jews Can Shoot
