Tisha B’Av 2023: Tisha B’Av, which occurs on July 26 this year, is a fast day in Judaism. It is also known as one of the most tragic days in Jewish history, as it was marked by a number of catastrophes that had lasting effects on Jews. The day of mourning commemorates the devastation of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem by the Neo-Babylonian Empire and the Second Temple in Jerusalem by the Roman Empire. Av 9 (day nine) also marked the collapse of Bethar and the conclusion of the Jewish revolt against Rome. Here is everything you need to know about today.
THE HISTORY OF THE TISHA B’AV
The tragic history of Tisha B’Av is still remembered by Jews around the globe. This is the reason why the day of mourning is observed annually. In addition to fasting and praying, the purpose of Tisha B’Av is to remember the tribulations the Jewish people endured to achieve their current status in the world. It all began when Jews were seeking entry into the Promised Land. Unfortunately, they had no prospect of starting their new lives in Israel. The destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians was the first setback to the Jewish religion. Almost 100,000 Jews were murdered and the survivors were exiled during this invasion. In approximately 133 A.D., the Romans constructed Aelia Capitolina on the sacrosanct site.
The Roman Empire ruled the territory at that point. During this period, the Second Temple was also destroyed, and more than 2.5 million Jews perished due to war, malnutrition, and disease. Romans captured and sold approximately 100,000 Jews as slaves for labour and bloodsport. In 1095, Pope Urban II proclaimed the First Crusade, which did not mark the end of the Jews’ suffering. This war resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Jews, while others lost their homes and continued to live in dread and turmoil. The Holocaust in Germany, during which one-third of the world’s Jewish population was led to their deaths, was one of the final strikes to the Jewish faith.
Five essential facts about TISHA B’AV
- Jews refrain from carnal activity on this day as well.
- Shaving and cosmetic application are prohibited.
- The pre-fast supper, or seudah ha-mafaseket, literally translates to “meal of separation.”
- Jews are expected to refrain from beaming, laughing, and engaging in idle chatter.
- The traditional pre-fast supper consists of bread, water, and an egg dipped in ashes.
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WHY TISHA B’AV IS CONSIDERABLE
Death and atrocities conducted against Jews by people of other cultures and religions taint Jewish history. Such days bring the past into the present for Jewish children and individuals of other religions.
This day is a significant reminder of all the hardships Jews endured during this period. This is done to demonstrate to newer Jews the significance of the day and the length of time the Jews fought before achieving peace.
If we do not heed the warning signals, history can repeat itself. On Tisha B’Av, individuals are reminded that hate crimes against certain religions can escalate if individuals remain silent.
