Fast of Ninth of Av
August 3, Sunday
Meaning
The Fast of the Ninth of Av is one of the most mournful days in Judaism. It commemorates tragic events in Jewish history, especially the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, which, according to tradition, were destroyed on this same day nearly 650 years apart.
Historical events associated with the 9th of Av
* destruction of the First Temple (built by King Solomon) in 586 BCE
* destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE by Roman legions
* expulsion of Jews from England in 1290
* expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492
* beginning of World War I (1914), which later affected Jewish communities in Europe
Rituals and traditions
The Fast of the Ninth of Av is a strict fast, similar to Yom Kippur. It lasts about 25 hours and includes:
* total abstinence from food and water
* prohibition on wearing leather shoes
* refraining from bathing, applying oils or creams
* abstaining from marital relations
* sitting on low stools or the floor (as a sign of mourning)
* reading lamentations, such as the “Book of Lamentations” and “Kinot” (mourning poems)
Synagogues are often dimmed on this day, and services are held in a mournful atmosphere, with lowered voices.
Preparation
A few weeks before the 9th of Av, a mourning period known as the “Three Weeks” begins. In the final week, especially during the “Week of the Ninth of Av,” many Jews refrain from joyful events, music, haircuts, and even washing clothes.
End of the fast
At the end of the fast on the evening of the 9th of Av, people traditionally return to their normal routine, but joy remains restrained, especially until noon the following day. Some continue to avoid meat and wine until the 10th of Av, as the destruction of the Temple continued into that day.
Meaning today
The Fast of the Ninth of Av remains an important part of Jewish culture and religion, reminding people of the pain of loss, the value of the Temple, unity, and hope for future restoration. It is a day of deep reflection, repentance, and spiritual cleansing.