We are in the midst of the Three Weeks of Sorrow that began with the Fast of Tammuz... Spiritually, the three weeks are marked by a renewed called for teshuvah (repentance), and the weekly readings from the prophets all warn the people about imminent judgment from heaven. Because this is such a somber time for the Jewish people, it is customary not to schedule weddings or other joyous events during this time of year. Indeed, among the very Orthodox, the last nine days of the three weeks are the most rigorous and solemn. Beginning on the first day of the month of Av, traditional mourning customs are practiced in anticipation of the great fast day of Tishah BAv, when the Book of Lamentations (Megillat Eichah) is plaintively recited during the evening service.
Posted on: Mon, 21 Jul 2014 21:50:01 +0000