The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) was to be commemorated each year, involving specific tasks by the High Priest and fasting by the people. Here we learn about washings, the mercy seat, scapegoats, sin and burnt offerings. Understanding these details will help us appreciate what Jesus, our High Priest, did on the cross to atone for our sins, as explained in the New Testament book of Hebrews. Since the Day of Atonement was also referred to as “the Fast”, we also look at New Testament teaching on fasting, an important part of the spiritual lives of Jesus' followers.