Tomorrow night marks the beginning of the holiest of Jewish holidays, #YomKippur with the service known as Kol Nidre. I thought I'd do a little thread on the tradition that dates back to around 1,000-1,400 years ago (and my personal favourite). 1/

Kol Nidre is the first hymn sung when the sun goes down on erev (evening before) Yom Kippur. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautifully and emotionally-charged composed prayers in Judaism... but it isn't exactly a prayer. 2/

It is actually a legal vow (a bit boring, I know) that proactively annuls any oaths taken over the coming year that would compromise one's relationship with God (I know, confusing). It's like saying "Over the course of the next year I might say things that aren't great, but... 3/

...I don't hold myself to it because I made this vow". It is thought that it originates from a time when Jews were put through forced conversions to Christianity, so Kol Nidre would spiritually annul those conversions. 4/

None of this is known for sure though... and there have been CENTURIES of disagreement and heated debate in Jewish communities about the merits and history of Kol Nidre. 5/

Regardless of its history and controversy, the singing of Kol Nidre is an incredibly emotional moment and something that brings me chills every year I hear it. 6/

It's an awesome few moments of introspection and perfectly sums up the Jewish peoples' long (long) history of persecution and heartache. Regardless of whether one fasts, goes to shul or just spends their #YomKippur with their own thoughts, Kol Nidre is well worth a listen. (end)

For more great tweeting on #YomKippur and new takes on old traditions, follow @TheRaDR for some great content