Tuesday Morning Torah – August 1, 2017
Today we mark the commemoration of Tisha B’av, the Ninth of Av, in which we commemorate the destruction of both Temples, as well as a number of historical tragedies that have occurred on, or around, this day in history. It is traditionally a day of mourning, fasting and reflecting. While the destruction of the Temple is a distant memory, as are many of the historical tragedies of this day, I invite each of you to take a few moments today to consider just what meaning this day might have for you in the year 2017.
The themes of senseless hatred among Jews and human beings leading to destruction; the idea of losing our spiritual home and center as a people, the importance of remembering our history; the concern that we all have modern “idols” that we worship and that can lead to our spiritual destruction- are all themes connected to this holiday which are still relevant to modern day society. With that in mind, I invite you to take a few moments today to consider what speaks to you about Tisha B’Av, and its modern meanings by checking out some of the resources below.
For editorials, films, and reflections on the modern meaning of Tisha B’av, click here:
To read reflections from a Masorti Rabbi living in Israel about his work in the area of pluralism and his experiences at the Western Wall, click here.
May those who are fasting have an easy and meaningful fast. And may everyone have a meaningful and reflective day.
