Tisha B'Av is the most solemn day of the Jewish calendar, when Jews worldwide fast for a full day. Tradition tells us that many calamities befell the Jewish people on the ninth of Av, including the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. On this evening of reflection, we will be joined by members of Fort Belvoir Jewish Congregation and Beth El Hebrew
Congregation.
Included in our observance will be the traditional complete reading of Eicha, the Book of Lamentations. In addition, we will hold a study session: "Should Israel Build the Third Temple?" This is something traditional Judaism has looked forward to for 2000 years and only became theoretically possible in 1967 when Israel regained control of Temple Mount. However, many Jews don't want to resume sacrificial worship and the Muslims already built a mosque on the site and would initiate a "holy war" if Israel tried to build a Temple there. On the other hand, it would be the fulfillment of a national dream and a unifying force for all Jews, and could serve many functions. Could it be built elsewhere? Let us review the history and functions of the Temple and discuss the matter together.
Please bring a flashlight for reading as the lights will be kept low to add to the experience.
For more information, please contact religiouspractices@adatreyim.org.
