The Shabbat of the Ten Days of Repentance is called either Shabbat Teshuva, named for these days of repentance [teshuva], or Shabbat Shuva, after the opening of the haftara of that Shabbat: “Return (Shuva), Israel, to the Lord your God” (Hosea 14:2).

In the Shabbat prayers one includes the same additions as on the weekdays, except, of course, for “the King of justice,” as this blessing is not part of the Shabbat Amida. The Avinu Malkeinu prayer is not recited on Shabbat. When taking out the Torah scroll from the ark one says the formula: “Holy and awesome is His name.” It is customary on this Shabbat for the rabbi to deliver a special sermon that focuses on repentance.

Kaparot and Yom Kippur Eve

The day before Yom Kippur is an important and special day. It is even considered a festival of sorts, and a festive meal is eaten. The reason for this is as follows: A verse in the Torah (Leviticus 23:32) states: “And you shall afflict yourselves on the ninth of the month in the evening, from evening to evening.” The Talmud wonders why the verse refers to the ninth of the month, when in fact the implication of fasting “from evening to evening” is that one must fast on the tenth of the month (Yom Kippur), which begins in the evening following the ninth, and concludes in the evening of the tenth. The Talmud explains: “Whoever eats and drinks on the ninth, the verse ascribes him credit as though he fasted on both the ninth and tenth.” Hence, it is a mitzva to eat on the day before Yom Kippur. Eating well helps one fast more easily and in a better state of mind, and also demonstrates our joy over the atonement of our sins and that we trust that God will be compassionate.