The Nine Days: Can You Buy New Clothes, Shoes, or Furniture?

Daily Inspiration: Everything Hashem Does Is for the Good

Rav Huna said in the name of Rav, citing Rabbi Meir, and it was likewise taught in the name of Rabbi Akiva: "A person should always accustom himself to saying: Kol d'avid Rachmana l'tav avid — Everything the Merciful One does is for the good." (Babylonian Talmud, Berachot 60b)

This timeless teaching reminds us that even when we cannot understand the reasons behind the challenges we face, we are encouraged to maintain our trust in Hashem and recognize that everything He does is ultimately for our benefit. By cultivating this perspective, we can learn to approach life's uncertainties with greater faith, resilience, and inner peace.

Two Halachot a Day

From Behalacha Uve'aggadah, based on the rulings of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, of blessed memory.

Is It Permitted to Sew or Knit Clothing During the Nine Days?

During the Nine Days, the period of mourning leading up to Tisha B'Av, it is prohibited to sew new garments, create new embroidery, or knit new clothing. However, repairing existing garments is permitted. For example, one may mend torn clothing or reattach a button that has fallen off.

An exception is made for someone whose family is experiencing financial hardship and whose livelihood depends on sewing, knitting, or similar work. In such circumstances, the individual may continue working during this period to support their household.

Purchasing new clothing is also prohibited during the Nine Days, even if the garments will not be worn until after Tisha B'Av. Nevertheless, one may purchase fabric during this period with the intention of using it to sew a garment after the fast.

Is It Permitted to Purchase Shoes or Furniture During the Nine Days?

Purchasing new shoes during the Nine Days is prohibited, even if one does not intend to wear them until after Tisha B'Av. However, repairing damaged or torn shoes is permitted.

An exception applies to cloth or rubber shoes purchased specifically for Tisha B'Av, when wearing leather footwear is prohibited. Such shoes may be purchased during the Nine Days, provided they are worn briefly before Tisha B'Av.

Regarding household purchases, it is permitted to buy new household utensils, furnishings, and furniture even after Rosh Chodesh Av. However, when purchasing particularly expensive items that bring considerable joy, such as a car or an elaborate, costly bookcase, it is preferable to adopt a stricter approach. Although the purchase itself is permitted, it is advisable to postpone bringing these items into the home until after the tenth of Av.

These halachot reflect the spirit of mourning that characterizes the Nine Days, a time when the Jewish people commemorate the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash. By limiting certain purchases and activities associated with personal enjoyment, while still allowing for necessary repairs and financial responsibilities, we give practical expression to this period of reflection and remembrance.