Tisha B’Av, the 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av, has traditionally been a day of mourning and fasting. It commemorates the destruction of the Holy Temples in Jerusalem. Some Jewish families now think of the holiday as a day for Tikkun Olam — repairing the world.
Everything you wanted to know about Tisha B’Av — and more!
- Read Lisa’s blog, “What is Tisha B’Av?”
- Read about the historical context of Tisha B’Av in this article by National Today.
- Reflect on connecting Tisha B’Av to struggles against oppression according to the American Jewish World Service.
- Learn about Tisha B’Av’s origins.
Tisha B’Av is not really a playful holiday, but here are some meaningful activities in the holiday spirit.
- Focus on the Temple with these building-related ideas.
- Repair things around the home, such as torn books, broken toys, or much-loved stuffed animals.
- Breathe and practice mindfulness by watching this meditation for kids or do some yoga together.
Hard boiled eggs are part of a traditional pre-fast meal in many families.
- Make some perfect hard-boiled eggs, egg salad, or deviled eggs with your children. Make sure to use an egg slicer for the egg salad!
Not everyone listens to music on this holiday, but here are some melodies that might inspire.
- Listen to some holiday-related music on our Tisha B’av Spotify playlist.
There’s nothing like a PJ Library book!
- King Solomon built the first Temple. PJ Library has books about Tisha B’Av, ancient Israel, and King Solomon.
- For adults: If the body is a temple, can we address and heal our inner fractures?
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