PRE-FAST FEASTING
The day before Yom Kippur is a festive day. As we prepare to stand before G-d, we do so with confidence that he will decree a year of life, health and prosperity for us. It is a mitzvah to eat and drink more than one is normally accustomed to. The Talmud teaches that eating on the ninth of Tishrei is regarded as though one fasted on both the ninth and Yom Kippur. Two meals are eaten, One meal is eaten before the afternoon prayer service (mincha) and one, the "separation meal," just prior to the onset of Yom Kippur. These meals are festive affairs, and we dip the challah in honey.