Tisha B'Av

Tisha B'Av is an annual Jewish fast day marked by mourning and reflection, primarily for the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. Observed in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, it falls on the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av, usually in July or August.

• Marks the destruction of both Temples in Jerusalem
• Observed with a 25-hour fast and five prohibitions
• The Book of Lamentations is read in synagogues
• Special dirges (kinnot) recall historic tragedies
• Considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar

What it is

Tisha B'Av is considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar, set aside for fasting, prayer, and communal mourning. The day commemorates the destruction of both Solomon's Temple and the Second Temple in Jerusalem, as well as other tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history. For many, it is a time to reflect on loss, exile, and the enduring hope for renewal. The atmosphere is somber, with traditions emphasizing sorrow and remembrance, uniting communities in shared grief and resilience.

Where it comes from

The origins of Tisha B'Av are rooted in ancient Jewish history. According to tradition, five major calamities happened on this date, including the destruction of both the First Temple by the Babylonians in 587 BCE and the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 CE. Other events, such as the defeat of the Bar Kokhba revolt and the plowing of Jerusalem's Temple site, also occurred on or near this day. Over centuries, Tisha B'Av has come to mark not only these foundational losses but also later tragedies, making it a central day of mourning in Jewish life.

How it is celebrated

Tisha B'Av is observed through a 25-hour fast, beginning at sunset and ending after nightfall the next day. Five main prohibitions are followed: no eating or drinking, no bathing, no use of creams or oils, no wearing of leather shoes, and abstaining from marital relations. The day is spent in prayer and reflection, with the Book of Lamentations read aloud in synagogues, often by candlelight or dim lighting to set a mournful tone. Special dirges called kinnot are recited, recalling not only the destruction of the Temples but also later tragedies such as expulsions, massacres, and the Holocaust. Torah study is limited to texts related to mourning or destruction, and pleasurable activities are avoided to maintain the solemnity of the day.

Joining in

Visitors in Israel or Jewish communities abroad can witness Tisha B'Av observances in synagogues, especially in Jerusalem, where the Western Wall becomes a focal point for communal prayer and lamentation. Expect a quiet, reflective atmosphere, with many people sitting on low stools or the floor, and the lights dimmed. Out of respect, it is best to dress modestly and refrain from eating or drinking in public spaces near synagogues or the Western Wall during the fast. Participation is open to all, but visitors should be mindful of the somber mood and the significance of the day for those observing.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Tisha B'Av, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Tisha B'Av on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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