Leil Selichot 1981

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.