What Is Kol Nidre. Said at the start of the Yom Kippur fast day, Kol Nidre declares all future vows and promises invalid, by declaring that all vows are "absolved, remitted, cancelled, declared null and void, not in force of in effect."

Kol Nidre / ˈkɔːl nɪˈdreɪ / (also known as Kol Nidrei or Kol Nidrey; [1] Aramaic: כָּל נִדְרֵי kāl niḏrē) is an Aramaic declaration which begins Yom Kippur services in the synagogue. Strictly speaking, it is not a prayer, even though it is commonly spoken of as if it were a prayer.

The following is the traditional Ashkenazic text of the Kol Nidrei service. Hebrew and English text taken from The Metsudah Machzor, via Sefaria.

Kol Nidre (“All Vows”) is a special prayer recited on the evening of Yom Kippur, declaring all unintentional vows null and void. One of the most well-known parts of the Yom Kippur service, its haunting melody signals the beginning of the holiest day of the year. Read on for 11 facts about this prominent and provoking prayer.

Kol Nidre (“all vows ”) is an ancient formula, said on Yom Kippur eve, declaring all unintentional vows we may make over the (coming) year null and void. It has also come to refer to the entire Yom Kippur evening service.

Say to God whatever you need to say ... and listen closely for a reply. May you receive an answer that will bring you joy and peace. May God be with you. May health and strength sustain you. May nothing harm you. May wisdom and kindness enrich you. May you be a blessing to this world and may blessings surround you now and always. Amen.

Kol Nidrei, recited on the eve of Yom Kippur, is a deeply significant prayer that annuls vows and emphasizes communal and individual atonement. Rabbi Joseph Karo’s 16th-century Shulchan Arukh details the customs, prayers, and melodies associated with the Kol Nidrei service, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local traditions.