INTRODUCTION:

Selichot are prayers and piyyutim (poems) for forgiveness that are offered prior to Rosh Hashanah. סליחה/selicha in Hebrew means forgiveness. It is also used for excuse me, pardon me, or I’m sorry. By beginning to recite these prayers before Rosh Hashanah, we are preparing ourselves for Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur and the 10 Days of Repentance. 

For Ashkenazi Jews, Leil Selichot generally takes place beginning the Sunday before Rosh Hashanah in the late evening/very early morning.  For this reason, many congregations hold Selichot services late in the evening on Saturday, i.e., 10 or 11pm.  If the Sunday before Rosh Hashanah is less than three days before the start of the holiday, Selichot takes place the Sunday prior. This year the date for Selichot is Saturday evening, September 5^th, 2026 or Sunday morning, September 6^th, 2026.  

Here is the Custom explained in Shulchan Aruch.   

For Sephardi Jews, it is customary to offer Selichot prayers early in the morning during the whole month of Elul, except on Shabbat. 

“Originally, Selichot prayers were recited early in the morning, prior to dawn. There was a custom in Eastern Europe that the person in charge of prayers would make the rounds of the village, knocking three times on each door and saying, “Israel, holy people, awake, arouse yourselves and rise for the service of the Creator!” It later became common practice to hold the first Selichot service — considered the most important — at a time more convenient for the masses of people. Therefore, the Saturday night service was moved forward to midnight.” https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/selichot-prayers-of-repentance/ 

This program is a creative way to make the offering of Selichot prayers come alive, as well as a chance to think about things about us that we want to change in the new year. By combining wine and chocolate with Selichot, it gets us thinking about change, our personalities, and the process of atoning for our sins.  

MATERIALS:

• Various squares of chocolate. Should include at least 5 of the following kinds (Milk, dark, white, bittersweet, caramel, nut filled, fruit filled, mint, sea salt, chocolate with marshmallow our sticky nougat.) *Can vary depending on size of program and level of kashrut. 
• Bottles of wine. Should include at least 4 of the following varieties (Chardonnay, Rose, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Sparkling, Cabernet, Non-alcoholic) *Can vary depending on size of program and level of kashrut. 
• Small tasting cups for wine  
• Colored plates for chocolate samples 
• Index cards for labeling varieties  
• Selichot prayers (see below) 
• Chocolate and wine choice definitions 

PROGRAM OUTLINE (60+ minutes):

• [part one] Intro to Selichot and 1^st singing of Hashiveinu or other Selichot prayer 
• [part two] Explanation of program and time to sample wines and chocolates 
• [part three] What your chocolate and wine choice says about you 
• [part four] What do you want to change for 5787 and more Selichot readings/prayers 

[part one] (10 minutes) 

Explain Selichot and teach singing of Hashiveinu. How it’s sometimes sung: Hashivenu | Rise Up and Sing 

[part two] (30 minutes)  

Have varieties of chocolates and wine set up throughout the room. Participants get to walk around and sample the various wines and chocolates. They should be instructed to take note of which ones they enjoyed the most and were most drawn to. This part of the program is meant to be social, as well as an opening into thinking about their lives and preferences. 

[part three] (10 minutes) 

Ask group to reflect on all the chocolates and wines that they’ve sampled and what their choices say about them.  

Group leader and various participants should read explanation of character types based on choices. (See below for definitions) 

There should also be a few copies of definitions printed and handed out to share so they can read more about their personality and corresponding sections and decide if there is merit to these definitions or if they resonate with themselves. 

Sing Hashiveinu 2^nd time. 

[part four] (10 minutes) 

After hearing all the various personality choices, participants should be given a few minutes of introspective time to think about their lives and what they want to change in the new year, what they want to ask forgiveness for, and how they want to enter the new year.  Program ends with more Selichot prayers and final singing of Hashiveinu.  

Some Selichot Prayers

Another component of Selichot is a passage from Exodus which is known as the Thirteen Attributes of God 

The Piyyut Adon HaSelichot first appeared in the Siddur of Amram HaGaon, Babylonia, 9^th Century. This poem is written as an acrostic which means that the initial line of Hebrew follows the alphabet.  

This translation is from Rabbi David de Sola Pool, modified by Aharon Varady. You can hear it chanted here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDsl1fiCzaA 

רַחוּם וְחַנּוּן.  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Merciful and Gracious One,  we have sinned before you,  have mercy upon us.
אֲדוֹן הַסְּלִיחוֹת.  בּוֹחֵן לְבָבוֹת.  גּוֹלֶה עֲמוּקוֹת.  דּוֹבֵר צְדָקוֹת.  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Awesome God,  Beneficent and good to all your creatures,  Clothed in right,  Declaring truth,  God we have sinned before you;  have mercy on us.

הָדוּר בְּנִפְלָאוֹת.  וָתִיק בְּנֶֽחָמוֹת.  זוֹכֵר בְּרִית אָבוֹת.  חוֹקֵר כְּלָיוֹת׃  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Ever constant in comforts,  Foreseeing,  Glorious in wonders,  Hearkening to prayers,  God we have sinned before you;  have mercy on us.
טוֹב וּמֵטִיב לַבְּרִיּוֹת.  יוֹדֵעַ כָּל־נִסְתָּרוֹת.  כּוֹבֵשׁ עֲוֺנוֹת.  לוֹבֵשׁ צְדָקוֹת׃  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Invoking the generations,  Judging in knowledge,  Knowing all that is hidden,  Lord of forgiveness.  Moving o’er the skies,  God we have sinned before you;  have mercy on us.
מָלֵא זָֽכִיּוֹת.  נוֹרָא תְהִלּוֹת.  סוֹלֵֽחַ עֲוֺנוֹת.  עוֹנֶה בַצָּרוֹת׃  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Nigh in trouble, overflowing in virtue,  Pardoning sins,  Quelling sinfulness,  Remembering the covenant with the fathers,  God we have sinned before you;  have mercy on us.
פּוֹעֵל יְשׁוּעוֹת.  צוֹפֶה עֲתִידוֹת.  קוֹרֵא הַדּוֹרוֹת.  רוֹכֵב עֲרָבוֹת.  שׁוֹמֵֽעַ תְּפִלּוֹת.  תְּמִים דֵּעוֹת׃  חָטָֽאנוּ לְפָנֶֽיךָ  רַחֵם עָלֵֽינוּ׃	Searcher of inmost feelings,  Tester of hearts,  Uncovering the depths,  Venerated in praises,  Working salvation,  God we have sinned before you;  have mercy on us.

For additional Selichot prayers :https://www.emanuelnyc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Selichot-Service.pdf 

Wine personality notes:  

Cabernet Sauvignon – The Bold Leader 

You’re confident, driven, and always in control. 

You pair well with deep conversations, power moves, and a perfectly grilled steak. 

If you’re a Cabernet lover, you know what you want, and you don’t hesitate to go after it. You’re the person everyone looks to for advice, and your presence commands attention. You love a wine that’s as bold as you are, with deep flavors, strong tannins, and a smooth finish. 

Sparkling Wine – The Life of the Party 

You’re social, bubbly, and always the first one on the dance floor. 

You pair well with brunch, birthdays, and any excuse to pop a bottle. 

If you’re always reaching for Champagne, Prosecco, or sparkling rosé, you know how to bring the fun wherever you go. You don’t need a reason to celebrate—you make every moment feel special. Whether you’re clinking glasses at brunch or making new friends at a wine bar, your energy is infectious. 

Pinot Noir – The Chill Intellectual 

You’re thoughtful, artistic, and effortlessly cool. 

You pair well with vinyl records, deep conversations, and rainy evenings. 

Pinot Noir drinkers are mysterious in the best way. You love depth—not just in wine, but in people. Your vibe is relaxed, but your mind is always running with new ideas. You’d rather have one deep conversation than a hundred small ones, and your perfect night involves good wine, good music, and maybe a handwritten journal. 

Sauvignon Blanc – The Adventurer 

You’re energetic, spontaneous, and always planning your next trip. 

You pair well with outdoor brunches, travel plans, and the friend group that texts, “Let’s do something fun today.” 

If Sauvignon Blanc is your thing, you love fresh, vibrant flavors—and you live life the same way. You’re always on the go, trying new restaurants, booking last-minute flights, and finding new hobbies just for fun. People love your energy, and you bring good vibes wherever you go. 

Malbec – The Mysterious Romantic 

You’re passionate, intriguing, and maybe a little dramatic, but in a good way. 

You pair well with late-night talks, cozy atmospheres, and the perfect playlist. 

If Malbec is your wine of choice, you probably love deep, soulful things—whether it’s music, books, or conversations that last until 2 AM. You don’t do small talk; you prefer real connections. There’s a certain mystery to you, and people are drawn to it. 

Rosé – The Trendsetter 

You’re fun, stylish, and always ahead of the curve. 

You pair well with beach days, brunch, and Instagram-worthy moments. 

If you’re a Rosé person, you don’t take life too seriously—but you know how to make it beautiful. You’re the friend who always knows the best places to go, the cutest outfits to wear, and how to make an ordinary moment feel special. You keep things light, fun, and effortlessly cool. 

Chardonnay – The Classic Charmer 

You’re elegant, refined, and always put together. 

You pair well with dinner parties, jazz music, and spontaneous weekend getaways. 

Chardonnay drinkers are timeless—you appreciate the finer things in life, but you’re also down to relax and unwind. You have great taste in wine and in life, and people admire the way you effortlessly balance class and fun. You’re the person everyone wants at their dinner party because you always bring the best bottle of wine and the best conversation. 

Chocolate Personality Notes:  

Milk Chocolate Lovers: Warm-Hearted and Nostalgic 

People who adore milk chocolate often have a comforting, nurturing energy. They appreciate balance and familiarity, preferring harmony over confrontation. The creamy sweetness of milk chocolate represents warmth, kindness, and a love for simple pleasures. 

I’ve noticed that milk chocolate fans are usually drawn to tradition. They might have fond memories of childhood treats, hot cocoa on cold days, or family gatherings where chocolate was shared. This sense of nostalgia often extends into how they live their lives, valuing connection, empathy, and sentimentality over change or risk. 

They tend to be sociable, dependable, and generous, always ready to offer a comforting word or gesture. If you prefer milk chocolate, you probably find joy in making others happy and have a strong sense of loyalty to your friends and family. 

However, milk chocolate lovers can also be cautious. They enjoy predictability and may avoid unnecessary drama. Their world is built on trust, comfort, and familiarity, just like their favorite chocolate. 

Dark Chocolate Enthusiasts: Confident and Sophisticated 

Dark chocolate is for those who crave depth, in flavor and in life. Its intensity and slightly bitter edge attract people who appreciate complexity and don’t shy away from challenge. Dark chocolate lovers often have refined tastes, a curious mind, and a desire for authenticity. 

Those who enjoy dark chocolate value quality over quantity. They’re drawn to the rich, earthy undertones and the slow melt that lingers on the tongue. This mirrors their personality, they prefer meaningful conversations over small talk and deep experiences over fleeting pleasures. 

Dark chocolate fans tend to be analytical, independent, and introspective. They enjoy solitude but can be magnetic in social settings, commanding respect with quiet confidence. They are also health-conscious, drawn to dark chocolate’s reputation for antioxidants and its link to better mood and heart health. 

Yet, beneath that sophistication lies a romantic streak. They might not show emotion easily, but they feel deeply and value sincerity. To them, dark chocolate is more than a treat, it’s a philosophy of life: bold, honest, and unapologetically real. 

White Chocolate Devotees: Playful and Creative 

White chocolate often appeals to those with a playful spirit and a love for novelty. Its creamy sweetness and buttery flavor attract people who view the world with curiosity and optimism. They thrive on imagination, spontaneity, and beauty. 

White chocolate lovers are often artistic or free-thinking individuals who appreciate indulgence without boundaries. They aren’t afraid to stand out or explore unconventional paths. They value aesthetics and tend to seek pleasure in small details, whether it’s the texture of a truffle or the way light reflects on a dessert plate. 

These people are usually upbeat and expressive, with a touch of idealism. They bring energy into any space and have a way of making others smile. However, their spontaneity can sometimes make them restless or indecisive. 

If you’re drawn to white chocolate, you probably live in the moment. You enjoy sensory experiences, love new ideas, and approach life as an adventure. For you, dessert isn’t just food, it’s art. 

Bittersweet Chocolate Fans: Balanced and Realistic 

Those who enjoy bittersweet chocolate walk the line between indulgence and restraint. They appreciate the depth of dark chocolate but prefer a touch of sweetness that keeps it from being too intense. This balance often reflects a grounded personality, someone practical yet emotionally aware. 

Bittersweet chocolate lovers tend to be thoughtful and emotionally intelligent. They understand life’s nuances and are comfortable with complexity. They’re the ones friends turn to for advice because they listen deeply and respond with empathy and reason. 

These individuals often find joy in moderation. They believe in savoring life’s pleasures without losing control. Their calm demeanor and self-awareness make them natural problem-solvers and good partners in both personal and professional relationships. 

Caramel-Filled Chocolate Admirers: Romantic and Sentimental 

If your favorite chocolates come with gooey caramel centers, chances are you’re a romantic at heart. You enjoy pleasure in its richest form and aren’t afraid to show your emotions. You value affection, tenderness, and moments that feel luxurious. 

Caramel chocolate fans often have big hearts. They love gestures that show care, flowers, handwritten notes, or long conversations by candlelight. They seek warmth and emotional connection in their relationships, often putting others’ happiness before their own. 

They’re also dreamers who appreciate the beauty of slowing down. The way caramel oozes out of a chocolate shell mirrors their personality, soft on the inside but capable of holding things together under pressure. 

Nutty Chocolate Lovers: Adventurous and Practical 

Those who love chocolate with nuts, whether almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans, tend to be grounded yet adventurous. They like a little crunch in their lives, symbolizing their appreciation for texture, variety, and challenge. 

Nutty chocolate lovers are doers. They enjoy balance between indulgence and practicality. They work hard but also know when to reward themselves. This balance reflects in their relationships too, they’re dependable but spontaneous, strong but kind-hearted. 

They often value health and energy, gravitating toward chocolate that feels more substantial. They enjoy experiences that engage all senses and are usually optimistic, adaptable, and good at making quick decisions. 

Fruit-Filled Chocolate Fans: Optimistic and Expressive 

Chocolates with fruit centers, like orange, raspberry, or cherry, appeal to those who bring color and emotion into life. They enjoy surprises, laughter, and anything that breaks routine. Their personalities are bright and expressive, often lighting up the room with their energy. 

Fruit-filled chocolate lovers are emotional but in the best way, they embrace feelings fully and share them freely. They see the world through an optimistic lens, preferring joy over cynicism. Their relationships are often filled with passion and playfulness, and they’re not afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves. 

They also appreciate balance, the tartness of fruit against the richness of chocolate reflects how they handle life’s ups and downs with grace and positivity. 

Truffle Lovers: Elegant and Emotionally Deep 

Those who adore truffles tend to have a love for elegance and depth. They appreciate craftsmanship and detail, whether in food, art, or conversation. Their taste leans toward indulgence with sophistication, a sign of someone who values experiences that feel luxurious and meaningful. 

Truffle enthusiasts are often introspective and emotionally attuned. They connect deeply with others and have a rich inner world filled with creativity and thought. They also enjoy quiet moments of reflection, often preferring intimate gatherings to large crowds. 

Their appreciation for texture, the soft ganache inside a delicate shell, symbolizes their duality: confident on the outside, sensitive on the inside. 

Mint Chocolate Fans: Calm and Refreshing 

Those who love mint chocolate tend to have calm, collected personalities. They like order and freshness in their environment, and they approach challenges with clear thinking and composure. Mint chocolate represents renewal, balance, and control, qualities that these individuals naturally possess. 

They enjoy routines and are often meticulous about details. Their sense of calm makes them reliable and steady partners or friends. Yet beneath that composure lies a playful side, they can surprise you with wit or spontaneity when the moment calls for it. 

Mint chocolate lovers also value clarity. Just as mint refreshes the palate, they seek honesty and openness in relationships and prefer authenticity over pretense. 

Dark Sea Salt Chocolate Enthusiasts: Modern and Bold 

Those who can’t resist the contrast of dark chocolate with sea salt are often daring and modern in their tastes. They enjoy balance but with a twist, an appreciation for flavor that challenges expectations. 

Sea salt chocolate lovers have dynamic personalities. They’re confident, assertive, and unafraid to stand out. They enjoy sophistication but aren’t bound by tradition. Their sense of style often extends beyond food, they have an eye for design, trends, and experiences that stimulate both mind and palate. 

These individuals thrive on contrast, work and play, boldness and subtlety, adventure and reflection. Their chocolate choice mirrors their approach to life: they embrace duality and find beauty in the unexpected. 

Chocolate With Marshmallows 

You’re the one everybody goes to for help. You mediate arguments, solve problems, help friends clean their closets, pick people up and drop them off. You make others happy just by walking into a room. Even more, friends just can’t get over how cheerful and kind you are. You really don’t take enough time for yourself–you’re always doing something for a friend–but occasionally, you do take time out for your favorite treat: chocolate covered marshmallows. You love the soft, sweet marshmallow inside. It reminds you of something.