What is the symbolism behind standing in the synagogue during Yom Kippur?

Question

I noticed the elderly stand while some of the youth go outside, goof around and sneak cigarettes and snacks......

Answer 1

respect to Hashem

Answer 2

Everyone should stand when the Ark is open and for certain prayers when the ark is not.

The youngsters should not be smoking or eating but if both your parents are alive it is traditional to leave the main body of the synagogue during the Yizkor (memorial) prayer.

Answer 3

well my children would never be allowed to do such a thing...and if they were 12 or older they most certainly would not be eating! as most recommend the year before being Bnei Mitzvah as a good year to practice fasting. that is to say NO ONE should be eating 12 or older. as for smoking? i would think that would be discouraged too! if you can not even have water i am certain we are not allowed to smoke!

and if people are standing no one should be leaving the sanctuary either. its considered terrible disrespect to G-d - being that when we stand it means the Ark is open and we are in the presence of G-d...

so i am as confused as you!

Answer 4

Go to jewishresourcecard.com for leads to information about what Yom Kippur is all about.

Answer 5

If they are sneaking snacks, they are being very naughty, indeed!

Cigarettes, well, that depends on the level of traditionality (orthodox, reform, etc.)

We stand during certain prayers, the most important ones, and we stand for them ALWAYS, not only on Yom Kippur, although there are some prayers that are ONLY said on Yom Kippur, and some of them, well, you stand for.

We also always stand when the Torah (the scrolls with the Five Books of Moses) is removed from its Ark, and when the reader (usually the Rabbi) lifts it for all to see the script, after reading.  And any time the Ark is opened.

Why do the "elderly" stand?  All over the age of 13 are required to stand, and honestly, all who are capable stand, usually, (so, excluding that three month old and anyone in a wheelchair), and the youngsters escape?  well, it's a long service, and even many of the adults will step out for a cig or a breath of fresh air, especially during a long-winded sermon from the boringest rabbi your shul has ever had...

Short answer....standing for respect, with certain prayers.