Tisha B’Av begins at sunset on Monday, August 8, 2011. It is observed on Tuesday, August 9.
What is Tisha B’Av?
Tisha B’Av is the major day of communal mourning on the Jewish calendar.
Although a large number of disasters are said to have befallen the Jews on this day, the commemoration is largely focused on the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem in 586 B.C.E. and 70 C.E., respectively.
• Read more about the Temple and its destruction.
• Read more about mourning on Tisha B’Av.
How is Tisha B’Av observed?
To commemorate the destruction of the two Temples, Megillat Eicha (the Book of Lamentations) is read in the evening, and in some communities in the morning. It is traditional to fast on Tisha B’Av, and to refrain from wearing leather shoes and bathing. Some people break their fast after Mincha, the afternoon prayer service. People also refrain from listening to music and enjoying other forms of entertainment.
• Read more about the Book of Lamentations.
• Read more about fasting on Tisha B’Av.
