Rabbi's Desk

The saddest day in Jewish history is the 9th of Av, beginning this evening. The 3-week period of mourning culminates with the commemoration of the destruction of both the 1st and 2nd Temples in Jerusalem. Over the centureies, other catastrophes that befell the Jewish people also came to be associated with this day of mourning.

To commemorate the destructions of the two Temples, the rabbis designated Tisha B'Av as a full fast day, like Yom Kippur, lasting from one evening to the next. This is in contrast to the 4 minor fast days when we begin fasting at sunrise. The following are prohibited throughout Tisha B'Av:

• Eating and drinking
• Wearing leather shoes
• Sexual relations
• Bathing (except for minimal washing)
• Applying skin or bath oils
• Greeting one another, especially with the word "Shalom."
• Studying Jewish religious texts. Exceptions are texts that support the mood of the day, e.g. Megillat Eicha (Lamentations), Iyyov (Job), and other biblical and rabbinic texts dealing with catastrophes in Jewish history.
   

As always, I am available for specific questions or to provide guidance regarding your specific circumstances. Please review the schedule below and join us for servies and learning over the course of the day. 

Wishing you a meaningful & safe fast. 

Blessings,
Rabbi Suson