Tisha b’Av and Zionism
The observance of Tisha b’Av Saturday night July 28 and Sunday, July 29, gives us the opportunity to focus on the connection between the destructions of the Holy Temples in Jerusalem and, thus, our connection to the Land of Israel. Zionism arose out of the longing of exiled Jews for their Homeland. Our leaders kept the exiles focused on what they had lost and have not let them forget. And we did not forget. We returned from exile to Eretz Yisrael many times, building a country 2,000 years later.
The American Zionist Movement and the World Zionist Organization presents this series of readings that emphasize the connection of Zionism to the messages of Tisha b’Av. Despite the proximity to 9 Av, please add them to your readings this year or use them in your private contemplation. In every case, please disseminate them to your members as soon as possible.
May the fast for those who so choose be an easy one.
