Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av: A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

Tisha B’Av, meaning “the ninth of Av” in Hebrew, is one of the most significant days of mourning in the Jewish calendar. It commemorates the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, as well as other tragic events throughout Jewish history.

Quick facts

When is it?: The 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av (usually falls in July or August)
Tagged as: Day of mourning, fasting, and remembrance
What’s the hashtag?: #TishaBav
When was it founded?: Historically observed since ancient times
Who founded it?: Rooted in Jewish tradition and history

History of Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av’s origins trace back to the destruction of the First Temple in 586 BCE and the Second Temple in 70 CE. Over time, it has become a day to commemorate various tragedies in Jewish history, including expulsions, pogroms, and the Holocaust.

Timeline

1313 BCE: The spies return with a negative report about the Promised Land
586 BCE: Destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians
70 CE: Destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans
135 CE: Fall of Betar, ending the Bar Kochba revolt
1290: Expulsion of Jews from England
1492: Expulsion of Jews from Spain

Tisha B’Av Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	August 3	Sunday
2026	July 23	Thursday
2027	August 12	Thursday
2028	August 1	Tuesday
2029	July 22	Sunday
2030	August 9	Friday

Observed Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av is observed through fasting, prayer, and the reading of the Book of Lamentations. Jews refrain from eating, drinking, wearing leather shoes, bathing, and marital relations. Synagogue services are held with dimmed lights, and congregants often sit on low stools or the floor as a sign of mourning.

The day is marked by a somber atmosphere, with many Jews spending time reflecting on the tragedies of their history. Some communities organize study sessions focused on the themes of destruction and redemption.

In recent years, some have also used Tisha B’Av as a time to contemplate contemporary issues facing the Jewish people and to promote unity and social justice.

Fun Facts About Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av is considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar
It’s one of only two 25-hour fasts in Judaism (the other being Yom Kippur)
The Western Wall in Jerusalem sees increased visitors on this day
Some have a custom of sleeping on the floor or with a stone under their pillow
Weddings are traditionally not held for three weeks leading up to Tisha B’Av

Quiz

What does “Tisha B’Av” mean?
Which two major events are primarily commemorated on this day?
How long does the Tisha B’Av fast last?
What book is traditionally read on Tisha B’Av?
In what year were the Jews expelled from Spain on Tisha B’Av?

(Answers: 1. Ninth of Av, 2. Destruction of First and Second Temples, 3. 25 hours, 4. Book of Lamentations, 5. 1492)

FAQs

Can I brush my teeth on Tisha B’Av?
Generally, it’s not permitted as it involves washing. If necessary for severe discomfort, consult a rabbi.

Is work permitted on Tisha B’Av?
It’s customary to refrain from work, especially in the morning, but it’s not strictly prohibited.

Can pregnant women fast on Tisha B’Av?
Pregnant and nursing women should consult their rabbi and doctor, as they may be exempt from fasting.

Why do we sit on low stools?
This is a sign of mourning, symbolizing our lowered state without the Temple.

Is it permissible to study Torah on Tisha B’Av?
Only certain portions related to the destruction and mourning are permitted, as Torah study typically brings joy.

Importance of Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av serves as a powerful reminder of the Jewish people’s resilience in the face of adversity. It provides an opportunity for communal mourning and reflection on historical tragedies, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose.

The day also encourages introspection and teshuvah (repentance), as tradition holds that baseless hatred among Jews contributed to the Temple’s destruction. Many use this time to contemplate how to improve unity within their communities.

Furthermore, Tisha B’Av keeps alive the hope for redemption and the rebuilding of the Temple, which is central to Jewish messianic beliefs. It balances mourning for the past with hope for the future, embodying the Jewish spirit of perseverance and faith.