In Judaism, the Yom Kippur Temple service was a special sacrificial service performed by the High Priest of Israel on the holiday of Yom Kippur, in the Temple in Jerusalem. Through this service, according to the Bible, the Jewish people would achieve atonement for their sins once each year. The service is notable as the only time in the year any person was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, and is the source of the term scapegoat.

In Judaism, the High Priest of Israel was the head of the Israelite priesthood. He played a unique role in the worship conducted in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem, as well as in some non-ritual matters. Like all priests, he was required to be descended from Aaron. But unlike other priests, the high priest followed more restrictive laws, wore unique priestly garments, and was the only priest allowed to perform certain ceremonies.