July 22

Fast of Ninth of Av

Reflect and honor history this Tisha B'Av, a solemn day of fasting and contemplating the many tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people.

Observed in

Israel

Introduction

Immerse yourself in deep reflection and honor history on the Fast of Ninth of Av, scheduled for August 13. The Fast of Ninth of Av, or Tisha B'Av, is a Jewish observance that dates back centuries and is considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. Steeped in history, it coincides with various catastrophic events that have befallen the Jewish people, including the destruction of both Solomon’s Temple by the Neo-Babylonian Empire and the Second Temple by the Roman Empire in Jerusalem. This day calls for sincere contemplation, fasting, and the remembrance of these significant events. It's a time to connect with our ancestors and collectively recall the strength and resilience of our faith. On this day, let's unify, honor our history, and reflect on our shared courage and devotion. Together, we can turn the memory of sorrow into a beacon of hope.

Fast of Ninth of Av Timeline

587 BC

First Temple destruction

On Tisha B'Av, Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian forces destroyed Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, marking a significant loss for the Jewish people.

Second Temple obliteration

On this day, the Second Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans, leading to the dispersion of the Jewish people throughout the Diaspora.

1492

"Alhambra Decree" issued

The Alhambra Decree (Edict of Expulsion) was issued by the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, forcing Jews to choose between conversion to Catholicism or leaving the country.

1914

World War I Commencement

World War I began on Tisha B'Av with Germany declaring war on Russia, setting the stage for the tragedy of the Holocaust.

1942

Mass deportations to Auschwitz

On Tisha B'Av, mass deportations of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto to the Auschwitz concentration camp began, marking one of the darkest periods in Jewish history.

How to Celebrate Fast of Ninth of Av

1 Remember with art

Get artistic by creating a piece of work that reflects the struggles and resilience of the Jewish people. This can be a painting, poetry, music or even a sculpture. Share your art with family and friends to spread awareness about the significance of Tisha B'Av.

2 Share stories

Organize a get-together with your loved ones on a video call and share stories that represent the courage and strength of the Jewish people. Encourage everyone to contribute a story.

3 Educate through a webinar

Host a virtual seminar or webinar where you invite knowledgeable speakers to educate participants about the historical events associated with Tisha B'Av. This fosters a deeper understanding of this important day.

4 Donate to a Jewish charity

Honor Tisha B'Av by making a donation to a Jewish charity. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in supporting Jewish communities around the world.

5 Reflect in solitude

Dedicate some time for quiet reflection. Some prefer to do this in the form of prayer, while others may choose meditation. Use this time to reflect on the events of the past and their meaning in your life today.

Why Fast of Ninth of Av is Important

Tisha B'Av Honors History

Tisha B'Av is a day set aside in the Jewish calendar to remember and reflect on catastrophic events that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history. Honoring the past is an important aspect of any culture, and Tisha B'Av allows us to learn from and reflect upon these historical events.

Tisha B'Av Connects Us with Our Ancestors

The observance of Tisha B'Av creates a historical link between generations of Jewish people. Through fasting and reflection, it provides an opportunity to connect deeply with our ancestors, understanding their strife and appreciating their resilience.

Tisha B'Av Encourages Community

Tisha B'Av is a communal event that encourages unity among Jewish people. By sharing stories, educating through webinars, and donating to Jewish charities, we cultivate a sense of community and shared responsibility, reinforcing the values and tenets of our faith.