What Is Kaparot?

Since late Talmudic times, it has been a widespread Jewish custom to perform kaparot in preparation for Yom Kippur. Kaparot (also spelled kapparot or kaporos) literally means “atonements,” just as  Yom Kippur means “the Day of Atonement.”

Kaparot consists of carefully (see instructions below) passing a chicken over one’s head three times while reciting the appropriate text. The chicken is then slaughtered in a humane fashion in accordance with the laws of kashrut. The chicken itself is discreetly donated to a charitable cause, such as a yeshiva or orphanage, where it is eaten just as any other chicken. Alternatively, the chicken is sold and its value donated.1

We ask of G‑d that if we were destined to be the recipients of harsh decrees in the new year, may they be transferred to this chicken in the merit of this mitzvah of charity.

How to Do Kaparot

If you are using money for kaparot, just follow the same procedure, modifying the words of the text as appropriate "This money will go to charity, and I shall proceed to a good, long life and peace."  To Make your Kaparot Donation Online -  CLICK HERE

  • Click here for the English text of the kaparot. Click here for Hebrew and English text in printable PDF format (courtesy of Kehot Publication Society).
  • Hold the chicken or money in your hand.
  • Say the first paragraph (“Children of man who sit in darkness…”).
  • When reciting the beginning of the second paragraph, pass the chicken or money over your head in circular motions three times—once when saying, “This is my exchange,” again when saying “This is my substitute,” and again when saying, “This is my expiation.” ....."This money will go to charity, and I shall proceed to a good, long life and peace." 
  • Repeat the entire process another two times. (Passing the chicken or money over your head a total of nine times.)

When to Do Kaparot

Kaparot can be done any time during the Ten Days of Repentance (i.e. between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), but the ideal time is during the pre-dawn hours on the day preceding Yom Kippur, for a "thread of Divine kindness" prevails during those hours.