Neilah meaning

Neilah symbolizes the closure of Yom Kippur and the final opportunity for repentance before the gates of heaven close.


Neilah definitions

Word backwards halieN
Part of speech Proper noun.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "Neilah" is Nei-lah.
Plural The plural of the word Neilah is Neilot.
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) e,i,a
Consonants (3) n,l,h

Neilah is a significant and solemn prayer service that marks the closing of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

This service is typically held just before sunset on Yom Kippur and is considered the final opportunity for repentance and forgiveness before the "closing of the gates."

Origin of Neilah

Neilah, meaning "closing" in Hebrew, symbolizes the closing of the gates of heaven after a day of intense prayer and introspection on Yom Kippur.

Importance of Neilah

During Neilah, worshippers are encouraged to pour their hearts out in prayer, seeking forgiveness for their sins and expressing their hopes for a good year ahead.

Traditions of Neilah

One of the central traditions of Neilah is the repeated chanting of the phrase "Hashem Hu HaElokim," meaning "The Lord, He is God," emphasizing the monotheistic core of Jewish belief.

Another common custom during Neilah is to recite the "Vidui" prayer, a confession of sins, as individuals seek to make amends and purify their souls.

Neilah Concludes Yom Kippur

As Neilah comes to a close, the final blowing of the Shofar signals the end of Yom Kippur, marking a moment of spiritual renewal and closure for the Jewish community.

Overall, Neilah serves as a powerful and poignant conclusion to the Day of Atonement, allowing participants to reflect, repent, and move forward with a sense of forgiveness and hope.


Neilah Examples

  1. I attended the Neilah service on Yom Kippur at my local synagogue.
  2. After the Neilah prayer, the sun was setting and the fast was coming to an end.
  3. Neilah is the final service of the High Holy Days in the Jewish calendar.
  4. The closing Neilah service is a time for reflection and introspection.
  5. During Neilah, the gates of heaven are said to be closing as the Day of Atonement concludes.
  6. Neilah is a powerful and emotional service that marks the end of the repentance period.
  7. The Neilah service includes the blowing of the shofar, a ram's horn used in Jewish religious ceremonies.
  8. Many people find the Neilah service to be a deeply meaningful and transformative experience.
  9. Attending Neilah each year helps me connect with my faith and community.
  10. The Neilah service is a time to seek forgiveness and make resolutions for the coming year.


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  • Updated 31/03/2024 - 19:21:57