Tishah B’Av, the ninth day of the month of Av (which month coincides with July and/or August), is the major day of communal mourning in the Jewish calendar. Although a large number of disasters are said to have befallen the Jews on this day, the major commemoration is of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem in 586 B.C.E. and 70 C.E., respectively. Central to the observance of this day is fasting and the reading of the Book of Lamentations.

In this two-part course, we will explore the meaning of the day through a close reading of Lamentations and explore the issue of observance of Tisha B’Av in light of the establishment, and thriving, of the State of Israel.

Everyone welcome. RSVPs appreciated.