Lifelong Learning: Love Sweet Love

This article first appeared in the July/Aug '24 edition of The Bulletin

I was recently asked, ‘Why aren’t there any joyful Jewish holidays over the Summer?’ Most of us are familiar with the somber day of Tisha B’Av, the ninth of Av, marking the date of destruction for both the First and Second Temples, far fewer have heard of the lesser-known beautiful summer holiday of Tu B’Av.

Tu B'Av, often referred to as the Jewish Day of Love, is a joyous holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Av.

Historically, it served as a matchmaking day for unmarried women in ancient Israel. Today, it has evolved into a day of love, romance, and unity.

The origins of Tu B'Av are deeply rooted in Jewish history and tradition. In biblical times, it was a day of matchmaking and betrothals, marked by joyful celebrations and dances in the vineyards. According to the Talmud, on Tu B'Av, unmarried women would dress in white garments and dance in the fields, while eligible bachelors would choose their brides.

To celebrate Tu B'Av today, people engage in various customs and traditions that emphasize love, unity, and connection. Some common ways to celebrate include:

1. Romantic gestures: Couples often exchange gifts, write love letters, or plan special outings to celebrate their love and strengthen their bond.
2. Community events: Many communities organize gatherings such as concerts, dances, or communal meals to bring people together in celebration of love and unity.
3. Acts of kindness: Tu B'Av is also a time to spread love and kindness to others. People may volunteer, donate to charity, or perform random acts of kindness to spread joy and positivity in their communities.
4. Wedding ceremonies: Tu B'Av is considered an auspicious day for weddings, and many couples choose to tie the knot on this special day, continuing the tradition of love and unity.
5. Overall, Tu B'Av is a time to celebrate love in all its forms and to cherish the relationships that enrich our lives.

And why not celebrate Tu B’Av this year when it falls on August 19 - after all, as Dionne Warwick sang, “What the world needs now is love, sweet love. It's the only thing that there's just too little of.”

With Love,

Rabbi Shara