One of the most profound features of Judaism is our ability to make the past part of our present. This is true on Passover, Chanukah, Sukkot and Shavuot in the celebratory mode. By contrast, there is also a time designated to make certain historical tragedies part of our contemporary consciousness. That period of time begins this Thursday with the observance of the Fast Day of the 17th of Tamuz. This day marks the beginning of a period of mourning in the Jewish calendar that laments a multiplicity of tragedies and anti-semitic persecutions dating from the Biblical period to modern times. The Mishna lists 5 events that took place on the 17th of Tamuz itself.
- The breaking of the first luchot or tablets of the law following the sin of the Golden Calf.
- The termination of the daily sacrifices offered in the Temple in Jerusalem because of senseless hatred between various groups of Jews.
- The public burning of Torah scrolls by a Roman soldier named Apostomos.
- The installation of an idol in the Temple in Jerusalem.
- The breach of the walls of Jerusalem by the Romans just prior to the destruction of the Second Temple.
Many other tragedies are mourned during the three weeks after the 17 of Tamuz, such as the expulsion from Spain, the Massacres of the Crusades and the burning of the Talmud in Paris in 1243.
The tradition is to Fast on Thursday from wake up or at the latest 2:15 AM until the stars are out at 10:06 PM. (It should be noted that the pregnant, nursing, and even those suffering from even mild sickness are specifically instructed not to Fast).
As well, Jewish custom dictates that during the three weeks until after Tisha B’av we refrain from buying new clothes, listening to festive music, holding wedding and public celebrations and refraining from haircuts.
I hope that this time affords us the opportunity for reflection on the tragedies of history and the growth that comes with such contemplation.
Leave a Reply