Tisha B’Av FAQs: What Is Permitted and Prohibited on the Fast Day?

Many people wonder what is actually permitted on Tisha B’Av. Is it acceptable to study Torah? Read Psalms? Sleep? Work? What is the general guideline for observing this solemn day properly?

The fundamental principle is that Tisha B’Av is a day dedicated to mourning the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash and reflecting on the spiritual causes of the exile. Activities that help a person focus on these themes are generally permitted, while activities that distract from the mourning atmosphere should be avoided.

Torah Study on Tisha B’Av

Torah study that does not divert a person from the mourning of the day is permitted.

Examples include studying:

• The Book of Lamentations (Eichah)

• Midrashim and Talmudic passages dealing with the destruction of the Temple

• Historical accounts of the destruction

• The Sefer Yosippon

• Other texts related to exile, mourning, and repentance

Since regular Torah study brings joy, many areas of Torah learning are avoided on Tisha B’Av.

May I Recite Tehillim?

During the days leading up to Tisha B’Av, there is no problem with saying Tehillim.

On Tisha B’Av itself, the common custom is not to recite Tehillim. However, some authorities allow it under certain circumstances, and those who are lenient have halachic opinions upon which to rely.

Many permit the recitation of Tehillim after midday (chatzot).

Is Sleeping Allowed?

Yes, sleeping on Tisha B’Av is permitted.

However, the goal of the day is not simply to pass the time. Ideally, a person should devote at least part of the day to contemplating the destruction, examining personal conduct, and strengthening his or her connection to God.

A Meaningful Way to Spend the Day

A helpful approach is to engage in activities that deepen awareness of the exile and the destruction of Jerusalem.

This can include:

• Reading reliable Jewish history related to the destruction of the Temple

• Studying ethical and inspirational works (mussar)

• Learning about the Beit HaMikdash

• Reflecting on personal growth

• Accepting a practical spiritual improvement for the future

In this way, the day becomes an opportunity to repair, in some small measure, what led to the destruction in the first place.

Washing Hands for Work

Someone whose work causes their hands to become dirty may wash them as necessary to remove the dirt.

The restrictions on washing do not apply when cleaning is needed for hygiene or practical purposes.

Reading About the Holocaust

Reading a book about the Holocaust on Tisha B’Av is permitted.

Such material is consistent with the mood of mourning and reflection that characterizes the day.

What About Children?

Young children are permitted to play normally on Tisha B’Av.

Children between the ages of two and seven may play games, use age-appropriate toys, and engage in regular activities.

If possible, it is beneficial to share books or stories about the Beit HaMikdash and Jewish history, but this is not required.

Wearing New Jewelry

Someone who purchased jewelry before Rosh Chodesh Av but receives it during the Nine Days should not begin wearing it before the conclusion of the Nine Days if Mashiach has not yet arrived.

Listening to Music

Listening to music during the Three Weeks and on Tisha B’Av is prohibited, including inspirational or uplifting music.

Using Deodorant

Applying deodorant, such as a stick deodorant, is permitted on Tisha B’Av.

Bathing a Young Child

Giving a bath to a two-year-old child on Tisha B’Av is permitted according to the basic halachic ruling.

Going to Work on Tisha B’Av

Although there is a tradition that work performed on Tisha B’Av is not blessed, there are situations in which going to work is appropriate.

For someone who finds it significantly easier to complete the fast while at work than while sitting at home, it is preferable to go to work.

The Guiding Principle

The overarching principle of Tisha B’Av is to keep the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash and the reality of exile in mind.

The day is not merely about fasting. It is about reflection, mourning, repentance, and spiritual growth. The more a person uses the day to strengthen their connection to God and resolve to improve, the more they fulfill the true purpose of Tisha B’Av.