What chapter of the Torah is read on Yom Kippur morning?

The main Torah reading on Yom Kippur morning is Leviticus 16, the chapter describing the ancient Day of Atonement service. It centers on Aaron, the High Priest, entering the sanctuary, making atonement, and sending away the scapegoat.

The chapter is known as Acharei Mot, “after the death,” referring to the deaths of Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu described earlier in Leviticus. Its rituals include sacrifices, incense, purification of the sanctuary, and the casting of lots over two goats—one for sacrifice and one sent into the wilderness.

In traditional synagogue practice, the reading is divided into six aliyot on a weekday and seven when Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat. The morning Torah reading is followed by a maftir from Numbers 29:7–11, which lists the day's additional offerings.

That additional Numbers passage is the most common source of confusion. It is also read in the morning service, but Leviticus 16 is the principal chapter and the standard answer to this question. The afternoon reading comes from Leviticus 18, not Leviticus 23.