Tisha B'Av in Canada

The Day:

Tisha B'Av, the 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av, is an annual fast day in Judaism. It is considered one of the saddest days on the Jewish calendar due to the commemoration of many calamities that befell the Jewish people throughout history, most notably the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

History and Traditions:

Traditionally, Tisha B'Av has been observed since antiquity. The destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians occurred in 586 BCE and the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 CE. Over time, other tragic events have also been associated with this date, including:

• The expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492.
• The beginning of World War I.
• Numerous other instances of anti-Jewish persecution.

On Tisha B'Av, several customs are observed including:

• Fasting for approximately 25 hours from sunset on the eve until nightfall on the following day.
• Reading from the Book of Lamentations (Eicha) and kinot (elegies).
• Abstaining from pleasurable activities such as bathing for pleasure, wearing leather shoes, and marital relations.
• Refraining from greetings or conducting business as usual.

In Canada:

In Canada, as in other parts of the Jewish diaspora, Tisha B'Av is observed by those within the Jewish community who adhere to religious traditions. Synagogues hold special services where Lamentations are chanted. Educational programs and discussions may be organised to reflect on historical suffering and contemporary issues facing Jewish communities worldwide.

Jewish community centers or organizations might also host events to commemorate Tisha B'Av with lectures or films related to historical themes relevant to this day. Canadian Jews may also engage in acts of charity and kindness as a way to rebuild from communal loss and sorrow.

Given its solemn nature, Tisha B'Av is a quieter observance compared to other Jewish holidays, with observant members participating privately or within their communities without widespread public events or celebrations.