Tisha B'Av in Israel

History and Significance: Tisha B'Av, the 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av, is an annual day of mourning in Judaism that commemorates the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BCE, and the Second Temple fell to the Romans in 70 CE. Tisha B'Av is considered the saddest day on the Jewish calendar due to these cataclysmic events, as well as other tragedies throughout Jewish history that are said to have occurred on this date.

Traditions:

• Fasting: Tisha B'Av is a full fast day, similar to Yom Kippur. From sunset on the eve of Tisha B'Av until nightfall on the day itself, observant Jews abstain from food and drink.
• Reading Eicha: The Book of Lamentations (Eicha), which laments the destruction of Jerusalem, is read in synagogues and homes.
• Sitting Low: To signify mourning, individuals sit on low stools or directly on the floor.
• Restrictions: In addition to fasting, Jews refrain from pleasures such as bathing for pleasure, wearing leather shoes (a sign of comfort), applying creams or oils, and marital relations.
• Mourning Practices: Many also refrain from greeting each other or engaging in unnecessary conversation.

What People Do: On Tisha B'Av:

• Observant Jews attend synagogue services where lamentations are chanted.
• Personal reflection and communal mourning practices take place.
• Educational programs about Jewish history and discussions about themes related to loss and rebuilding may be held.
• Some visit the Western Wall (the last remnant of the Second Temple) to pray and remember.

In Israel specifically:

• National television and radio alter their programming to suit the somber mood with documentaries about Jewish history and discussions about destructions that have befallen Jewish people throughout time.
• Recreational spots might be less crowded as some Israelis observe a more subdued behavior during this time.