Why We Fight

As the sun sets this evening, we acknowledge the coming of the 17th of Tammuz. Historically, this day has seen several calamities including the destruction of the first set of stone tablets of the Ten Commandments and the breaching of the walls of Jerusalem in 70 CE. The 17th of Tammuz kicks off the "Three Weeks" mourning period which culminates in the most calamitous day of the Jewish calendar Tisha B'Av (9th of Av). Religious Jews throughout the world will be holding a sunrise to sunset fast tomorrow and accept onto themselves the mourning restrictions of the Three Weeks period, including for abstaining from haircuts, shaving, listening to music, and conducting marriages or any other joyous events. Additionally, since the Three Weeks are seen as a time of great danger for the Jewish people, medical operations, travel either to dangerous places or by a dangerous mode (e.g., via airplane) are avoided during this period. The Three Weeks are also sometimes called Bein HaMetzarim ("between the straits") after the verse from Lamentations: all [Zion's] pursuers overtook her within the straits (בֵּין הַמְּצָרִים). (Lam. 1:3)

On this day, July 18th, we must also acknowledge that back in 1290, King Edward I of England issued the Edict of Expulsion, expelling Jews from England and recently conquered Wales for over 350 years. (In the Jewish calendar, this event was actually on Tisha B'Av and it is listed as one in a long list of great calamities in Jewish history to coincide on that date.) It is this troubled history that bears witness that our national fortunes can change at a moment's notice that keeps me on guard. It forces me to speak up, to be strong and resolute (חֲזַק וֶאֱמָץ), and to never forget! May we all navigate the Straits in peace, safety and health!