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Far from the Holy of Holies: How did ancient Jews observe Yom Kippur 2,000 years ago?

New research into ancient Jewish life reveals how Yom Kippur was observed beyond the Temple, from fasting and private prayer to communal reflection.

  • Jews across the Land of Israel and Diaspora fasted on Yom Kippur 2,000 years ago.
  • Philo, a Jewish philosopher from Alexandria, describes Yom Kippur practices in the Diaspora.
  • Qumran sect had fixed prayers, as seen in Dead Sea Scrolls, emphasizing sorrow and weeping.

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