Last night, we began the new month (Rosh Hodesh) of Av. The month of Av, includes an additional name that has been added on to it during the preceding years, and that is “Menachem Av” (Av of Consolation). This month is considered one of consolation, or more specifically, one that needs consolation, due to the historical tragedies that have occurred on the 9th of Av over the millenniums. During this month in genetal and on the 9th of Av specifically, both the first and second temples were destroyed, the expulsion of Spain in 1492 occurred, and in 1942 deportations and the liquidation of the Warsaw Ghetto began. These events among many others are without doubt tragic, and as a people there is positively a need for consolation after having endured such hate and violence over the years. However, taking all this into consideration, I still believe that we should drop the word “Menachem” (consolation) from the title of the month. My opinion is based upon my outlook that while we need to remember the tragedies that occurred in our history, this month should rather be one of celebration; celebration centered around the survival, success and development that we continue to enjoy as a people even in light of having been persecuted in the past. We should look at the positive of whom and where we are, and use this as an impetus for our continued successes in the future. Thus, while I am “consoled”, it is because of our strength as a people in meeting any danger or tragedy that I find consolation in. It is only when we turn the tragedies of our past into the life force of our present, and the fuel for our futures that we will be able to face each Rosh Hodesh (new month) with the awe and anticipation that God intended for us, when He created the world. Let me wish all of us a month filled with health, happiness ad peace.
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 10:39:55 +0000
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