The Three Weeks

The “Three Weeks” (Bein ha-Metzarim, “Between the Straits”) is the period of mourning that begins on the 17th of Tammuz and culminates on the 9th of Av (Tisha B’Av). It commemorates the series of calamities—chiefly the breaching of Jerusalem’s walls and the destruction of both Temples—that befell the Jewish people.

Key Dates & Events

• 17 Tammuz: Walls of Jerusalem breached by the Romans (69 CE), plus several earlier tragedies (see above).

• Nine Days (Rosh Chodesh––8 Av through 9 Av): Intensified mourning leading up to Tisha B’Av.

• 9 Av (Tisha B’Av): Destruction of the First (586 BCE) and Second (70 CE) Temples, plus other national tragedies.

Customs During the Three Weeks

• From 17 Tammuz:

◦ No weddings or festive celebrations.

◦ Music and haircuts are customarily avoided.

• Nine Days (8 Av–9 Av):

◦ No meat or wine (except Shabbat).

◦ No laundering or swimming.

◦ Avoid buying new clothing or shoes.

• Tisha B’Av (9 Av):

◦ 25-hour fast, kinnot (lamentations) are read, and one sits on the floor or low stool.

The Three Weeks invite us to reflect on the causes of our historical calamities—spiritual drift, internal discord, neglect of Torah—and to use this period of restraint and introspection as a springboard for teshuvah (return), rebuilding our personal and communal “Temple” of faith and unity.

Sources