What is Tu B'Av?
Tu B'Av (the 15th of the Hebrew month of Av) is a joyful minor holiday sometimes described as the Jewish "day of love." The Talmud remembers it as one of the happiest days of the year, an ancient occasion of matchmaking and celebration. Coming just days after the mournful fast of Tisha B'Av, it's a striking turn from grief to joy. Today it's often marked as a time for love, weddings, and celebration, a bit like a Jewish Valentine's Day.
Where does Tu B'Av come from?
The Talmud lists Tu B'Av (along with Yom Kippur) as a day when, in ancient times, unmarried women would go out and dance in the vineyards, and matches were made. Several joyful historical events are also associated with the date. After the deep mourning of the Three Weeks that culminate in Tisha B'Av, Tu B'Av arrives as a deliberate return to hope and happiness.
How is Tu B'Av observed today?
- As a popular day for weddings, engagements, and romance — its "day of love" reputation.
- With festive, celebratory customs, and in Israel as a widely recognized day of love.
- As a bright turn in the calendar — joy following the summer's mourning.
In short: Tu B'Av is a joyful minor holiday on the 15th of Av — an ancient day of matchmaking the Talmud calls one of the happiest of the year, now a Jewish "day of love."
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