The Art & Letters of Repentance — Kol Nidrei in Culture, History, and Behavioral Economics

Abstract

The haunting intonation of Kol Nidrei sets the tone for Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. The prayer is well known to Jews worldwide and is even familiar through popular culture. However, there is nothing in this recitation that points to the themes of the Day of Atonement. It seems to undermine the effort of absolution and has contributed to antisemitism throughout the generations. In fact, it was not always endorsed by the rabbinic leadership. How has this passage become so central to the Yom Kippur experience, despite every argument to the contrary? Can culture, history, and modern wisdom give us any insights into this mystery of Jewish custom?