Five tragedies occurred on this day:
- The decree for the sin of the Meraglim
- The 1st Beit Hamikdash was destroyed
- The 2nd Beit Hamikdash was destroyed
- The fall of Beitar
- The site of the Beit Hamikdash and the surrounding area was ploughed
On Tishah B’Av, one may learn only those parts of Torah which discuss the laws of mourning, the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash, or the tragedies which befell the Jewish people throughout history. One should learn these in a cursory manner, and not delve into it (Drush v’Pilpul). Similarly, one should not consult a Rav regarding Halachic matters irrelevant to Tishah B’Av.
As during the rest of the Nine Days, one should endeavor to hear a Siyum. This should be done on a topic which may be learned on Tishah B’Av (such as the conclusion of Moed Kattan.)
Needless to say, the obligation to learn Torah at every opportunity applies fully on Tishah B’Av. [Many Achronim bemoaned the lax attitude some people sadly adopted towards learning on Tishah B’Av.]
One should give increased Tzedakah, especially before Mincha. It is proper to give the value of the forgone meals – especially if one is exempt from fasting.
