Introduction
The days between the Seventeenth of Tammuz and the Ninth of Av are called the “Days of Bein Hametzarim” (Between the Straits). According to the verse in the Book of Lamentations, “All her pursuers have overtaken her between the straits.” This period is also called the “Three Weeks” because it lasts for twenty-one days.
In Jewish history, these days are marked by troubles and disasters.
During the three Shabbatot within the Days of Bein Hametzarim, the Haftarah portion is chosen from the words of admonition by the prophets before the days of the destruction of the Second Temple. They warned the people to improve their ways and that destructive behavior would bring about their ruin.
Customs of Mourning
The days between the Seventeenth of Tammuz and the Ninth of Av are called the “Days of Bein Hametzarim” (Between the Straits). According to the verse in the Book of Lamentations, “All her pursuers have overtaken her between the straits.” This period is also called the “Three Weeks” because it lasts for twenty-one days.
In Jewish history, these days are marked by troubles and disasters.
During the three Shabbatot within the Days of Bein Hametzarim, the Haftarah portion is chosen from the words of admonition by the prophets before the days of the destruction of the Second Temple. They warned the people to improve their ways and that destructive behavior would bring about their ruin.
Customs of Mourning:
During the Three Weeks, we express the sadness and grief we feel due to the prolonged exile and troubles and strive to rectify our actions.
Mourning over the destruction of the Temple helps us internalize the historical lessons and work towards the proximity and acceleration of rebuilding the Temple.
The sages of Israel saw mourning over the destruction of the Temple as something unique and necessary, to the point that they assured, “Whoever mourns for Jerusalem will merit and see its rebuilding.”
- We do not cut our hair or shave.
- We do not hold weddings and refrain from organizing parties, joyful celebrations, and dancing.
- We refrain from eating new fruits and wearing new garments (even on Shabbat, we refrain from reciting the “Shehecheyanu” blessing on something new).
- During these days, we are very careful to avoid actions or journeys that may involve danger.
- We try not to go on trips and outings, and it is also not advisable to schedule medical treatments during this period.
It is proper and recommended to increase acts of charity, Torah study, and love for fellow Jews during these days.
