ליל סליחות
Leil Selichot
Leil Selichot marks the beginning of the penitential prayer season before Rosh Hashanah, setting the tone for the High Holidays.
When is Leil Selichot 2026?
Observed on
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Leil Selichot is observed on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah, typically in September. The service often begins after midnight.
Significance
Leil Selichot sets the tone for the High Holiday season, awakening the spirit of repentance and self-reflection that characterizes the Days of Awe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leil Selichot
Leil Selichot is the night when the recitation of Selichot (penitential prayers) begins in preparation for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. In Ashkenazi tradition, Selichot begin on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah (or two Saturday nights before if Rosh Hashanah falls early in the week). Sephardi communities begin on the 1st of Elul.
Selichot include the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy (a central refrain recited repeatedly), piyyutim (liturgical poems) about repentance, vidui (confession), and supplications for forgiveness. The prayers are traditionally recited in the early morning hours, ideally after midnight, when divine mercy is considered most accessible.
About Leil Selichot
Leil Selichot (ליל סליחות) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Leil Selichot 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.