The Three Weeks

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The three weeks which begin on Shiva Asar B'Tamuz (the seventeenth of Tamuz) and end on Tisha B'Av (the ninth of Av) are a period of mourning for the Jewish people. It was during this time that both of our Holy Temples were destroyed.

There are two periods within these three weeks. During the period beginning from Shiva Asar B'Tamuz till the end of Tamuz (a period of twelve days) the mourning is not as intense. The final nine days beginning with the first of Av till Tisha B'Av are much more intense. During these final nine days the mourning from the first twelve days is intensified and many additional practices of mourning are added.

During the first twelve days the following practices are observed:

• We do not perform weddings during this time.
• We do not make the blessing shehechyanu during this time. This blessing is made upon purchasing a new garment or eating a new fruit (i.e. fruit which has just come in season). Therefore we do not purchase new clothing during this time and, if possible, we do not eat new fruits.
• We do not shave or get a haircut during this time.
• We do not listen to music during this time.

During the final nine days we continue to follow these restrictions in addition to which we add the following practices:

• We do not eat meat or drink wine except on Shabbos.
• We do not do construction whose primary purpose is pleasure (such as building a swimming pool) or aesthetic (such as painting).
• We do not bathe during this period (except for Friday in honor of Shabbos).
• We do not launder clothing during this period nor do we wear fresh clothing (except for Shabbos).
• We do not trim our fingernails during this period.

In addition, it is preferable to not engage in disputes with non-Jews during the month of Av.

Many of these restrictions have exceptions which can be applied in specific cases. It is advisable to speak to a competent rabbi about your particular situation.

Return to Lazer's
Guide to the Jewish Year
or to Lazer's
Talmud Torah