Asking for forgiveness of fellow human beings – and not only of God – is a major feature of Yom Kippur.
From acrimony and vindictiveness to forgiveness and peace of mind. Hence, sinners and criminals are invited to Yom Kippur services. Asking forgiveness is consistent with Leviticus 19:18 (“Love thy neighbor as yourself”) and with the philosophy of Hillel the Elder, a leading 1st century BCE Jewish Sage: “Do not do unto your fellow person that which is hateful to you. That is the essence of the Torah; the rest is commentary….”
Asking forgiveness of fellow human beings aims at displaying magnanimity, humility, compassion, consideration, responsibility, optimism, faith, and genuine repentance. It recognizes one’s fallibilities, learning from one’s mistakes, minimizing future missteps, elevating morality, and enhancing family and community cohesion.
Photo: Walla News