LISTEN: Interview about the meaning of Yom Kippur in light of Oct 7 and a year of war

In this interview with Christian journalist Paul Calvert, Elana Heideman, executive director of the Israel Forever Foundation, offers her reflections on Yom Kippur, the conclusion of the 10 days of atonement that begin with Rosh Hashanah.

Yom Kippur marks a time when Jews worldwide traditionally fast for 25 hours, engage in deep prayer, and seek forgiveness not only from God but also from friends and family, for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly. The day, as Heideman explains, "is neither sad nor happy," but rather an opportunity for introspection and cleansing of both body and soul.

In Israel, the streets take on a unique stillness. Vehicles are no longer on the bustling roads of Israel, instead replaced by families walking to and from synagogues or riding bicycles.

"Even the non-religious community observes," Heideman notes, describing how Yom Kippur is a day that belongs to Jewish heritage globally, where "all of Jewish philosophy and theology comes together.”

This year, Yom Kippur carries a heavier emotional toll, as it marks the first anniversary of the horrific Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks. Heidelman acknowledges that the nation’s prayers are now deeply tied to the ongoing war, the hostages and those still suffering.

"We are not the same people we were last Yom Kippur…we are praying for our hostages, and we are praying for ourselves.”

Heideman makes a call to action to the global community, particularly the Christian body, inviting them to stand together with the people of Israel.

"We need the Christian world to band together and not just love Israel but love Israelis. And not just love the Zion but love Zionists. And not just love God, but love the children of God, the Jewish people everywhere, wherever we are, and get involved and do more."

She also calls on those who support Israel to combat the rise of antisemitism and continue to defend the Jewish nation's right to protect itself amid Iranian-backed proxy groups in the region.

This Yom Kippur, as Heideman expresses, is more than just a day of personal reflection. It is a poignant reminder of the challenges Israel faces and the need for unity and compassion in the face of adversity.

Click below to listen to the full interview.