Fast of Behav

Behav Zichron Moshe Iyor 5783 cropped

Fast of Behav is a minor Jewish fast day known in Hebrew as Ta'anit Behav (Hebrew: תענית בה"ב). This fast is observed annually on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, marking the beginning of a three-week mourning period which culminates on the 9th of Av, another significant fast day called Tisha B'Av. The period between these two fasts is known as "The Three Weeks" or "Bein ha-Metzarim" (בין המצרים), a time of mourning the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

Background

The Fast of Behav commemorates a series of tragic events in Jewish history, most notably the breach of the walls of Jerusalem by the Babylonian forces before the destruction of the First Temple in 586 BCE and the Roman forces before the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. This day marks the onset of the siege of Jerusalem, leading to the subsequent destruction of the Temples and the dispersion of the Jewish people.

Observance

During the Fast of Behav, individuals observe a full fast from dawn until dusk. The fast entails refraining from eating and drinking, similar to the observance of Yom Kippur, albeit for a shorter duration. In addition to fasting, it is customary to engage in prayer and Torah study, focusing on texts related to the destruction of the Temples and themes of mourning and repentance.

Customs and Practices

The liturgy for the Fast of Behav includes the addition of special prayers, such as "Selichot" (penitential prayers) and the reading of the Book of Lamentations in the evening service. It is also customary to abstain from celebrations, music, and haircuts during this period, reflecting the mournful nature of the day.

Significance

The Fast of Behav serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of communal repentance. It is a time for Jews to reflect on the historical tragedies that befell their ancestors and to consider the spiritual and moral lessons that can be drawn from these events. The fast also emphasizes the theme of hope and the belief in the eventual rebuilding of the Temple and the redemption of the Jewish people.

See Also

• Tisha B'Av
• Three Weeks
• Jewish holidays
• Temple in Jerusalem