Rabbi Sternbuch Calls for Midnight Prayers on Tisha B'Av to Invoke Salvation
Tisha B'Av, the solemn day commemorating the destruction of the Temple, is traditionally a time of mourning, yet it also holds a spark of consolation. According to Jewish sages, the Messiah was born on this day, and after midnight, light begins to emerge from the darkness. This moment marks a softening of mourning and an intensification of prayers for redemption.
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading halachic authority, emphasized the unique spiritual power of the hours following midnight on Tisha B'Av. He described this time as "great and effective for miracles," when the light of the Messiah shines and salvation can be achieved. To harness this auspicious moment, Rabbi Sternbuch established a special fund called the "Tisha B'Av After Midnight Fund," inviting all Jews to participate in prayer and charity during this time.
Rabbi Sternbuch urged every individual to find a way to join, assuring that through prayer, charity, and the power of this special time, salvation will come soon, both spiritually and materially. He encouraged those who feel unable to contribute not to worry, stating, "Do not be concerned or saddened by what you lack, for you are not lacking, only gaining." During the midnight gathering, Rabbi Sternbuch will pray for divine mercy on all participants and personally sign a written commitment to their salvation.
The participation amount is set at 780 shekels, symbolizing the date of Tisha B'Av. Rabbi Sternbuch expressed hope that all contributors will merit imminent salvation. He stressed the importance of seizing this once-a-year opportunity, which will not return until next year.
For those wishing to join the fund and partake in this spiritual moment, a link to participate was provided by the organizers.