The Month of Av

The months of the Jewish year are called in the Torah by number only (the first month, second month, etc.). Over time, during the exile, the months assumed the names given to them by host cultures, and thus the “Jewish” months as we know them today are actually Babylonian in origin. These names were so common, that 8 out of 12 are mentioned in the later books of the prophets.

Even though the name “Av” comes from Babylonian, a person may note the subtle nuance of the name. “Av” means father, and in the fifth month of the Hebrew year, God’s persona as Father is truly demonstrated.

It is stated in the Book of Proverbs (13:24): “A parent who spares his rod, hates his child, but he who loves him, disciplines him in his youth.” God warned the Jewish people that their misguided behavior would result in disaster, but they ignored His warnings.

Thus, the beginning of the month of Av was the time of the destruction of both Holy Temples, disasters which the Jewish community commemorates with an annual day of fasting and mourning on the ninth of Av (Tisha b’Av). When He allowed the Babylonians (and then the Romans) to conquer Jerusalem, destroy the Holy Temple(s) and drive the Jewish people into exile, God had one fatherly goal in mind – that the Jewish people see the error of their ways and correct themselves.

A parent who punishes a child often does so to prevent greater harm to the child. Punishment often indicates the parent’s abiding love for the child and reflects the parent’s great desire to ensure the child’s future happiness.

Rejoicing is also an important facet of the month of Av. Tu b’Av (Literally the 15th of Av) is a day of tremendous rejoicing in Israel, when in days of yore, unmarried maidens would go out to the field to find a husband. Thus, in Av, after God completes the role of disciplinarian, He comes forward to watch and enjoy His children rejoice.

The month of Av begins tonight.