Tisha B'Av

It is after sundown, and accordingly, by the Hebrew Calendar it is the 9th day of the month of Av (Tisha B'Av in Hebrew), the day both the First and the Second Temples were destroyed. I, of course, will be fasting until tomorrow evening, which wouldn't be quite so bad, except that in a few hours I will be traveling out of town on an empty stomach. Fortunately, the excursion will be via train, so at least I will not be driving.

But those who mourn the destruction of the Holy City of Jerusalem will, likewise, share in the great joy when the Temple is rebuilt. Accordingly, many synagogues (my own included) are hosting study sessions, seminars, and the like about what the destruction of the Temple means, and how and why we can hasten its rebuilding by returning to our faith.

Niels Bohr reportedly said, regarding the practice of nailing horseshoes over doorways to ensure good luck, that it works whether you believe in them or not. Similarly, for those of you who doubt the power of prayer, fasting and repentance, consider that the various Muslim groups are intimidated by such study programs. If it rankles them, that is proof positive that such study programs are productive.

May you all have an easy fast, and may we see the rebuilding of Jerusalem, speedily in our day!