What readings are relevant for Noahides on Tisha B’Av?

On the 9th/Tisha of the Hebrew month of Menachem Av, Jews observe total fasting for a full day. The fasting for over 24 hours is done in mourning over the destruction of the First and the Second Holy Temples. Both Temples were destroyed on that same date in the Hebrew calendar. The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians. The Second Temple was destoryed by the Romans.

This year (20’24), the day of Tisha B’Av starts at sundown on Monday, August 12. (In years when the 9th begins on Friday night, the fast is pushed off 24 hours, and starts on Saturday night.)

Traditional readings for Tisha B’Av

Noahides may read these traditional readings for Tisha B’Av from the Tanach (Hebrew Bible):

– the Book of Lamentations (written by Jeremiah)

– the Book of Job

We have posted some audio history lessons about the “Three Weeks” of mourning that Jews observe, and the day of Tisha B’Av:

– the “Three Weeks” preceding Tisha B’Av: https://asknoah.org/audio/the-three-weeks

– destruction of the 2nd Holy Temple on Tisha B’Av: https://asknoah.org/audio/destruction-of-the-2nd-holy-temple

During the Hebrew month of Menachem Av, everyone can and should increase in deeds of goodness and kindness for others. That especially includes giving donations to proper charities. By this we mean charities that are not in conflict with Torah law or Torah-based morality. It’s good to keep in mind that at the end of Menachem Av, Rosh Hashanah is only one month away.

It is also important to pray to G-d for the coming of the true Moshiach (the Messiah). He will build the Third Holy Temple, and it will bring great blessings to the world in the Messianic Era.