What is Tisha B’Av?
Tisha B’Av (Hebrew: תשעה באב or ט׳ באב, “the Ninth of Av,”) is an annual fast day in Judaism, named for the ninth day (Tisha) of the month of Av in the Hebrew calendar. On Tisha B’Av, the fast observed by Jews commemorates the various tragedies and calamities that have occurred throughout Jewish history on the ninth day of the month of Av. The fast begins at sunset on the eve of Tisha B’Av and continues until the following nightfall, lasting approximately 25 hours.
During this fast, observers abstain from the following:
Eating and drinking: Fasting from all food and beverages, including water, is an essential aspect of the day.
Bathing and applying cosmetics: Personal grooming practices such as bathing, anointing oneself with oils or lotions, and wearing perfumes are traditionally avoided as signs of mourning.
Wearing leather shoes: In line with mourning customs, leather shoes are not worn, and many choose to wear simple, non-leather footwear or go barefoot.
Intimate relations: Marital relations are abstained from during this solemn period of mourning.
When does Tisha B’Av begin and end?
Tisha B’Av 2023 in Chicago begins at sundown on Wednesday, 26 July 2023, and will end at nightfall on Thursday, 27 July 2023.
On the Eve of Destruction: Erev 9 b’Av in the Warsaw Ghetto, 1942, with Dr. David I. Bernstein
Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies
July 27 @ 1:00 PM
Step back in time to a pivotal moment in history with ‘On the Eve of Destruction: Erev 9 Bav in the Warsaw Ghetto 1942.’ Join us for a captivating virtual event featuring renowned historian, Dr. David I. Bernstein, as he delves into the poignant events leading up to Tisha B’Av during the Holocaust. Explore the courage and resilience of the Jewish community in the Warsaw Ghetto amidst unimaginable hardships. This powerful presentation offers a unique opportunity to honor the past, remember the fallen, and find inspiration in the indomitable spirit of survival.
Tisha B’Av at Base
July 26 @ 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Join us for a soul-stirring Tisha B’Av experience at BASE! Immerse yourself in an evening of reflection, prayer, and communal solidarity as we commemorate the historical tragedies of this solemn day. Together, we’ll read the Book of Lamentations (Eicha), share stories of resilience, and draw strength from our collective heritage. Let’s come together as a community to remember, mourn, and aspire for a better future.
