The United Synagogue

Tisha B'Av

This day allows us to reflect on the destruction of the two Temples. The first was built by King Solomon, and was destroyed in war by the Babylonians, and the resulting exile lasted for 70 years.

The reason for its destruction was the relentless pursuit of immorality - whether idol worship or sexual impropriety.

The Second Temple was destroyed for one reason only, "Sinat Chinam", or causeless hatred. The Jewish people at the time simply hated one another for no reason, and had absolutely no compassion for each other.

What happens on this day?
Traditionally, one fasts from sunset to sunset, 25 hours in total. In the synagogue we read the book of Lamentations (Eichah), which details the destruction of the First Temple.

In addition, we abstain from activities such as listening to music, sitting on comfortable chairs and sexual relations.