For many people, including many who are otherwise not observant, Yizkor has become an indispensable part of their shul experience. Indeed, although Yizkor can halachically be said privately and without a minyan, it has become a major draw to the synagogue, especially on Yom Kippur.
- How is it permitted to conduct an ostensibly sad ceremony on Yom Tov, including (in Israel) on Simchat Torah?
- Why is there no Yizkor on Rosh Hashana?
- Why do (in most cases) people whose parents are still alive leave the shul during Yizkor?
- Should a person say Yizkor in the first year after a relative passes away? If not, why not?
Delivered at the OU Israel Center, October 2, 2019, Tzom Gedalia 5780
This shiur is sponsored by Miriam Marcus in Loving memory of her dear father מרדכי בן יהושע צבי ז”ל who’s 55th Yahrzeit is 11 Tishrei.