Rabbi Howard Morrison

This Wednesday night and Thursday (July 26-27)  is Tisha B'Av, the saddest day on the Jewish calendar. While the day recalls historical Jewish tragedy, the centerpieces of the sadness surround the destruction of both holy Temples in Jerusalem. 

History focuses on external causes. The Babylonians destroyed the first Temple, and the Romans destroyed the second Temple.

Rabbinic tradition, however, focuses on internal causes. The first Temple was destroyed on account of promiscuity, idolatry, and murder. The second Temple was destroyed on account of senseless hatred, Sinat Chinam.

On this Tisha B'Av we are again threatened on all sides. Externally, acts of anti-Semitism are on the rise. Acts of terror take place in Israel.

Internally, we Jews are divided religiously and politically. Legitimate debate is one thing. Illegitimate debate is another.

Consider the Knesset's decision on judicial reform this past Monday. Sadly, partisan ideology superceded the unity of Israel. Could there not have been a way for disparate views to find enough common ground? We now pray for healing and the future of Israel.

Consider the Western Wall, the last vestige of the Temple, which should unite us. On Rosh Chodesh Av, as Neshama Carlebach was leading a women of the wall service on the women's side of the kotel, chareidi leaders blasted music of her late father, Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, to drown her out. Skirmishes ensued.

Friends -  while external forces destroyed ancient Jerusalem twice, our Sages focused on internal strife. We must do so as well. We must begin the process of national and individual repentance now. From Tisha B'Av, we enumerate seven weeks of comfort leading to the "Ten Days of Repentance." Of course, repentance ought to be a daily practice. Now is the time nationally and individually.

Sincerely,
Rabbi Howard Morrison