Next week we observe Tisha B'Av, the saddest day on the Jewish calendar, when we commemorate the destruction of the first and second Holy Temples which were destroyed on this day (in 423 BCE and 69 CE respectively).
The Holy Temple was not merely an impressive building that served as HQ for everything Jewish. The Temple was very much G‑d's home here on earth, a home He shared with His people. Kings and nations from far and wide acknowledged the special bond between the two inseperables - G‑d and His people - and brought regular offerings to the Temple, so that they too can feel and be blessed by the Divine Presence - the Shechina - which was so palpable in the Temple. (Is it any wonder that some people developed a dislike towards us? Think - teacher's pet, dad's favorite...)
So the loss is great. But it's been a long time. Why observe a communal day of fasting and mourning each year for a loss sufferred close to 2000 years ago?
Like I said recently at the tragic, untimely funeral of Karen Kobin, undoubetly an unusual woman, suddenly snatched from her loving family: "There's a price to pay for having an extraordinary mom. When she's gone - the hurt is extraordinary."
Is the gift of an extraordinary relationship worth the price? I say yes.
You're a Jew. You have a very special relationship with SomeOne extraordinary. Pay the price. Fast this Tisha B'Av (from 8:03pm on Monday to 8:32pm Tuesday). You might even shed a tear and feel some pain. It's a sign the relationship is alive and well... all these years later.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Shalom M Paltiel
PS I strongly encourage you to fast this Tisha B'Av. Coming to services is less important; just by abstaining from food and drink these 25 hours while you go about your business is VERY important and valuable. (Besides, most of us could afford losing a few pounds anyway... so why not get a mitzvah at the same time).
Tisha B'Av Services & Film:
Monday, August 8
8:03pm Fast Begins
8:30pm Services and reading of Eicha - Lamentations
Tuesday, August 9
7:00am Morning services
6:30pm Film: The Rebbe & the Holy Land
7:30pm Mincha services (with Tallis & Tefillin)
8:32pm Fast ends
Featured Film: The Rebbe & The Holy Land
People often inquire about the Rebbe and his views on Israel.
Our custom has been to show a film on Tisha B'Av late afternoon related to the theme of the day - Jewish survival. The land of Israel is certainly central to that idea.
I have therefore chosen to show a film entitled: The Rebbe and the Holy Land, which highlights the Rebbe's relationship with modern day Israel, its people and its leaders.
Please mark your calendar to join us for this film on Tisha B'Av, Tuesday, August 9, at 6:30 pm. The film is 30 minutes. (Mincha services will follow the film).
May Hashem bring peace to Israel and blessings and good tidings to the entire world.
|
