Rosh Chodesh Av

About

The Month of Av

Av is a month of stark contrasts: profound mourning followed by comfort and joy. Tisha B’Av is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar, marking the destruction of both Temples. Yet tradition teaches the Messiah will be born on Tisha B’Av, and the 15th of Av (Tu B’Av) is one of the most joyous days — a day of love. The name "Av" means "father," reflecting God’s compassion even in hardship.

Significance

Rosh Chodesh Av

Rosh Chodesh Av falls during the Three Weeks of mourning. On this date, Aaron the High Priest died (Numbers 33:38). Despite the somber context, Rosh Chodesh itself retains its festive character — the clouds of mourning cannot fully eclipse the joy of the new month. Partial Hallel is still recited.

Spiritual Themes

Themes of Av

Av teaches the power of hearing, comfort, and transformation. The Talmud says: "When Av enters, we reduce our joy" — but also teaches that Av will eventually become the happiest month, when the Temples are rebuilt. The lion (Aryeh) of Av represents both destruction and the messianic rebuilding.

Observances

Customs of Av

• •Nine Days of mourning (1–9 Av): no meat, wine, bathing for pleasure, or laundering
• •Tisha B’Av: 25-hour fast, reading of Eicha (Lamentations), sitting on low chairs
• •Tu B’Av: historically a day of matchmaking and celebration
• •Increased acts of loving-kindness

History

Historical Events in Av

• •Destruction of the First Temple (586 BCE)
• •Destruction of the Second Temple (70 CE)
• •Expulsion from Spain (1492)
• •Aaron the High Priest died (1 Av)
• •Tu B’Av: multiple joyous events in Jewish history

Upcoming

Other Rosh Chodesh Dates