- It is customary not to bathe during the Nine Days.
- The Sefardic custom is to refrain from bathing only during the week of Tisha Be’Av. As such, this year, when Tisha Be’Av falls on Shabbat, Sefardim may bathe in the previous week.
- If, as a result of heat and perspiration, one feels uncomfortable, one may shower or bathe, but only as necessary to relieve one’s discomfort.
- One may wash parts of one’s body with soap and cold water.
- Children who are constantly getting dirty may be bathed.
- A man who goes to the mikvah on a daily or weekly basis may continue to do so during the Nine Days (but not on Tisha Be’Av).
- A sofer who usually immerses in the mikvah before writing holy scrolls may do so during the Nine Days. Similarly, a sandak or a mohel may immerse in a mikvah before the brit.
- By the letter of the law, Ashkenazim should not have a full shower on Erev Shabbat Chazon (August 1). Rather they should wash their hands, face, and feet with hot water and soap and their hair without soap. Some are lenient in this regard.
- A woman whose Mikvah night is during the Nine Days may prepare for the Mikvah with a hot bath and immerse in the Mikvah as usual.
- A woman whose Mikvah night is the night after Tisha Be’Av should bathe and prepare herself on Erev Shabbat Chazon. Some say she should do the preparations after Tisha Be’Av.
More in this printout
- Three Weeks and Nine DaysExplore the significance of The Three Weeks and Nine Days—how mourning opens a path to spiritual connection during this poignant time.
- The Seventeenth of TammuzUncover the tragic events of the 17th of Tammuz that shaped Jewish history, from the broken tablets to the Temple's breach. What lessons remain?
- FastingUncover the nuances of fasting: when it truly begins, exceptions for eating, and tips for staying mindful during this sacred time.
- Redeeming the FastUnlock the mitzvah of giving tzedakah on fast days—find out how this act transforms the fast and impacts those in need. What’s the true reward?
- Other ActivitiesUncover the nuances of fast day observances—work, showering, and mikvah practices. What’s the balance between tradition and daily life?
- PrayersUnlock the significance of fast day prayers, including the role of Selichot and Anienu. How do these additions enhance your spiritual experience?
- Laws of the Three WeeksUncover the essential laws of the Three Weeks, including blessings and customs. How will these practices shape your observance this year?
- Haircuts and Shaving During the Three Weeks and Nine DaysCan you trim your mustache or shave during the Three Weeks? Find out the rules and leniencies before Tisha Be’Av in this insightful guide.
- Leisure Travel During the Three Weeks and Nine DaysIs leisure travel forbidden during the Three Weeks and Nine Days? Explore the nuances of this practice and its significance in Jewish tradition.
- Positive Practices During the Three Weeks and Nine DaysElevate your observance during the Three Weeks by exploring the profound connection between learning and rebuilding the Bait HaMikdash. Are you ready?