The Ninth of Av

Will The Temple Be Built This Year?

Every year at this time, we mourn the destruction of the Temple and pray for its rebuilding. Does this mean that the Temple will actually be built this year?

Unleash the Torah's Shackles!

...It is interesting that one particular deficiency humbly hid itself for many generations among the other things we lacked, finding its expression chiefly in allusions of the Sages of the Kabbalah. However, in our times, it appears to be peeking out and budding forth, gradually becoming a bitter, silent, but great cry...

9. Sexual Relations

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

The fifth way in which we afflict ourselves on Tisha Be-Av is by abstaining from sexual relations.

8. Wearing Shoes

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

One may not wear high-quality shoes on Tisha Be-Av. There is a dispute among the poskim about the status of non-leather shoes.

7. Anointing Oneself, Fragrances, and Smoking

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

One may not apply oil or ointment on Tisha Be-Av even to a small area of the body. One may not smell perfumes or other fragrances on Tisha Be-Av.

6. Washing for the Sake of a Mitzva

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

One may wash one’s hands for the sake of a mitzva because such washing is not for the purpose of gaining pleasure.

4. Pregnant and Nursing Women

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

sick people are exempt from fasting on Tisha Be-Av, while pregnant and nursing women – despite the aches and pains that they experience – are not considered sick.

5. Washing

Chapter 10: The Laws of Tisha Be-Av

Any form of pleasurable washing is prohibited on Tisha Be-Av, whether the water is hot or cold. One may not even wash a small part of his body.