Since sundown on Sept. 18, Jews around the world began observing their holiest days on the calendar in the strange, virtual format of the era of COVID-19. Despite the limitations placed on worshipers by the virus, the 10 days following the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah mark a period of introspection–a time to reflect on the year’s transgressions and ask for forgiveness. The 10 days culminate in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, in which observers participate in a day-long fast and prayer throughout the day.
This year’s holidays also come during a time of unique fractiousness and division–in some ways accelerated by the same tools of communications used to stay in touch during the pandemic.
