
Penitential prayers סליחות.A Jew asking God for forgiveness, through the Penitential prayers of Selichot. Picture Source: Selichot Prayer book, based on Chabad custom, issued in Moscow
Penitential prayers סליחות, are special prayers said prior to Rosh Hashana (the Jewish New Year). Most Jewish Communities continue reciting these prayers through the Ten Days of Awe (Yamim Noraim) between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.
In 2012, Selichot start according to Ashkenazi custom on 9/9/12 after midnight.
Pingback: Day of Atonement – Yom Kippur – יום כיפור « Hebrew Daily Phrase