The Three Weeks

The twenty-one day period between the seventeenth of Tammuz and the ninth of Av is referred to as bein ha-metzarim - "within the straits," based on the verse (Eichah 1:3) which states: All of her pursuers overtook her within the straits. The Sages (Eichah Rabbah 1) explained that within the straits refers to the days of affliction which occurred in the period between the seventeenth of Tammuz and the ninth of Av. In this period, many calamities befell the Jewish people throughout the generations. It was during this period of within the straits that both the first and second Temples were destroyed. This period was therefore established as a time of mourning for the destruction of the Sanctuaries.

During this period, we lessen the extent of our rejoicing. Marriages are not held, we refrain from listening to music, dancing, taking pleasure trips, and from taking haircuts or shaving. According to the Sephardic custom, which is based on the opinion of Beit Yosef, haircuts are permitted until the week in which Tishah b'Av actually falls.

It is customary not to recite the Shehecheyanu blessing during this period. Thus, we do not wear new clothing or eat fruit which we had not yet eaten that season so that we will not be required to recite Shehecheyanu. However, when faced with an opportunity to fulfill a mitzvah which will pass - e.g., a circumcision or a pidyon haben - then the blessing is made. Similarly, if a new fruit is available during this three-week period and might not be available afterwards, Shehecheyanu is recited. Since it is customary to permit the recital of the blessing on Shabbat, it is preferable to save the new fruit until Shabbat. A pregnant woman who has a craving for a new fruit, however, or a sick person who needs it for his health, may recite Shehecheyanu during the three weeks.

It is customary to be even more careful than one usually is in avoiding dangerous situations. Pious people set aside a period of time for reflection and mourning over the destruction of both Temples. In some communities it is customary to recite the Tikkun Chatzot even at noon.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe also urged that the Three Weeks should be a time of increased giving of charity and Torah study (in keeping with the verse (Isaiah 1:27), "Zion shall be redeemed by law, and her returnees by charity"), particularly the study of those portions of Torah that deal with the laws and the deeper significance of the Holy Temple.

From
The Book of Our Heritage
Published and Copyright
Feldheim Publications
and other sources

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