What are selichot?
Selichot are special prayers of repentance that are recited on fast days and during the High Holiday season. As the High Holy Days draw near, Jews around the world gather in their synagogues to recite Selichot. In the Ashkenazic tradition, the recitation of selichot begins on Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah. Selichot are drawn from biblical and rabbinic sources and may also include special poems of hymns composed especially for the occasion. The actual prayers are usually published in small books whose contents are limited to the selichot ritual itself. They are rarely found in sidurim.
When are selichot recited?
As I mentioned above selichot are often thought of in terms of the High Holy Days. Ashkenazi Jews begin the recitation on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah. Sephardim recite selichot during the entire month of Elul. In most communities selichot prayers continue through the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Special versions of selichot are recite on the fast days of 3 Tishrei, 10 Tevet, 17 Tammuz, and on the Fast of Esther. In some communities selichot are recited during other times. You should consult your rabbi and follow the customs of your own community.
A Time for Introspection.
While reciting selichot one should concentrate on searching his or her own heart and soul. Where have I fallen short of Divine expectations? What could I have done better? Use the inspiration of selichot to communicate with G-d, seeking repentance for past wrongs and strength to improve in the year to come. Sincere repentance will not be turned away! "A broken and contrite heart O L-rd You will not cast aside."
As you recite the prayers of selichot, may you be drawn ever closer to Hashem and prepare yourself to meet G-d on the Holy Days with a sense of awe and repentance. May you merit a favorable decree. Shanah Tovah.
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