Rosj Chodesj Av 2023

Av is the most somber month of the Jewish year, containing Tisha B'Av (the 9th), when both Temples were destroyed. The first nine days of Av (the 'Nine Days') carry heightened mourning restrictions: no meat or wine (except on Shabbat), no swimming for pleasure, no laundering clothes, and no weddings. However, after Tisha B'Av, the mood lifts, culminating in the joyful Tu B'Av on the 15th.

Standard Rosh Chodesh prayers are recited: half Hallel, Ya'aleh V'Yavo, the Torah reading, and Musaf. Since Rosh Chodesh Av marks the beginning of the Nine Days, mourning restrictions intensify from this day. Despite this, Rosh Chodesh retains its festive character, and meat and wine are permitted at a Rosh Chodesh meal.