The Talmud provides details about the fast of Yom Kippur, stipulating that one must avoid all food and drink, including water. Smoking and chewing gum are also prohibited, as is marital intimacy. The fast is considered so sacred that even those who are severely ill or pregnant are encouraged to fast, but they should always consult with a physician or rabbi first.
Children under the age of 13 are not required to fast, and some leniencies are granted to those who are elderly, ill, or pregnant. However, all members of the Jewish community are expected to participate in the spirit of Yom Kippur by abstaining from certain activities, such as work and entertainment, and devoting the day to prayer and repentance.
The fast of Yom Kippur ends with the blowing of the shofar at the conclusion of the Kol Nidre service, which marks the beginning of Yom Kippur. At this time, Jews will gather in synagogues to pray, reflect, and seek forgiveness from God for their sins.