Jewish Holiday Today

What is the Jewish Holiday Today?

Today, August 11, 2023, is the Jewish holiday of Tisha B'Av, a day of fasting and mourning that commemorates some of the saddest events in Jewish history, including the destruction of both of the Holy Temples in Jerusalem.

Tisha B'Av is observed with a 25-hour fast, from sundown on the 9th of Av to nightfall on the 10th of Av. During the fast, Jews refrain from eating and drinking, and they also refrain from certain activities such as bathing, using leather, and engaging in marital relations.

In addition to the fast, Tisha B'Av is also observed with special prayers and readings. The Book of Lamentations is read in synagogues, and there are also special readings from the Torah and the Talmud.

Why is Tisha B'Av Important?

Tisha B'Av is an important day in the Jewish calendar because it commemorates some of the saddest events in Jewish history.

The destruction of the First Temple in 586 BCE by the Babylonians.

The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by the Romans.

The expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492.

The Holocaust during World War II.

Tisha B'Av is a day for Jews to reflect on these tragic events and to mourn the loss of life and the destruction of their holy places.

How is Tisha B'Av Observed?

Tisha B'Av is observed with a 25-hour fast, from sundown on the 9th of Av to nightfall on the 10th of Av. During the fast, Jews refrain from eating and drinking, and they also refrain from certain activities such as bathing, using leather, and engaging in marital relations.

In addition to the fast, Tisha B'Av is also observed with special prayers and readings. The Book of Lamentations is read in synagogues, and there are also special readings from the Torah and the Talmud.

On the evening of Tisha B'Av, Jews gather in synagogues for a special service called the Kinot. The Kinot are a series of dirges and lamentations that commemorate the destruction of the Temple and the other tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people.

What are the Customs of Tisha B'Av?

There are a number of customs that are associated with Tisha B'Av. Some of these customs include:

Sitting on the floor or on low stools.

Covering mirrors and windows.

Refraining from wearing leather shoes.

Not greeting others with the traditional Jewish greeting, "Shalom."

These customs are all meant to symbolize the mourning and sadness that is associated with Tisha B'Av.

What is the Significance of Tisha B'Av?

Tisha B'Av is a significant day in the Jewish calendar because it is a day of mourning and remembrance. It is a day to reflect on the tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people and to pray for a better future.

Tisha B'Av is also a day of hope. It is a day to believe that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.

Jewish Holiday Today