Prayer of Purity

There is a prayer found in most Machzors, called תפילה זכה, the Prayer of Purity. Ideally, it should be said before Kol Nidrei, but it can also be said after the evening services of Yom Kippur.

It is a special prayer because it creates a kind of dialogue with Hashem, and becomes very personal.

It expresses that we have taken upon ourselves the obligations of the day in refraining from eating and drinking, as commanded by the Torah.

It is also an expression of remorse that we could have done better, and we allowed ourselves to be careless and negligent in the observance of Mitzvot throughout the year.

It acknowledges that Yom Kippur can only atone for sins between man and G-d. One must make things right in his dealings with his fellow man.

This is a petition before Hashem where we say, “My heart inwardly grieves for there is hardly a pious man on earth who does not commit misdeeds.” And it goes on, “I offer supplications before You, that You bestow mercy upon us. I hereby extend total forgiveness to all who have wronged me. Let no one be penalized because of me.”

The prayer expresses deep remorse and resolve to do better.

It is a fitting way to get into the mood of Yom Kippur, with the realization that our fate is entirely up to G-d. It is definitely worthwhile to try to find the time to say this very meaningful prayer of תפילה זכה.