Tisha B'Av, fast 2025

Description

Tisha B Av is a Jewish day of mourning. It remembers great losses and sad moments in Jewish history. People reflect on pain, exile, and broken places that affected the community for many generations.

The date is the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av. The Hebrew calendar is lunar and moves compared with the civil calendar. That means the ninth of Av falls on different Gregorian dates each year.

In Israel Tisha B Av is observed as a fast day by many people. The day is quieter and more serious than ordinary holidays. It marks a time to remember and to think about the past.

This day is significant because it links many historical events into one moment of communal memory. It helps people keep alive the lessons from loss and encourages hope for rebuilding and peace in the future.

Traditions

On Tisha B Av people fast from food and drink from sunset to nightfall next day. Many sit on low stools or the floor in synagogues and private homes. They avoid wearing leather shoes and limit washing and perfumes.

Communities read the Book of Lamentations and recite kinnot, special mournful poems. In Israel large groups gather at holy sites and synagogues for long, quiet prayers. People also refrain from study of joyful texts and from marital relations until after the fast ends.

Before the fast some eat a simple last meal called seudah hamafseket. After the fast families break it with light foods like bread, soup, eggs and fruit. Some say personal prayers at graves or commemorative sites.

Travel Tips

Many shops, some restaurants, museums, and public transport run on limited schedules or close. Expect road closures and crowds at key sites. Allow extra travel time, use taxis or walk short distances, and check local news or hotel notices for updates.

Join guided tours or public events for safe, organized visits. Dress modestly, carry water, ID, and a charged phone. Plan meals before or after the day. Ask your hotel about quiet areas and exact opening times to avoid surprises.