Chief Rabbi Ambar Calls for Strength and Faith on Tisha B'Av Amid Messianic Times

On the occasion of Tisha B'Av, the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem, Rabbi Shlomo Moshe Amar, delivered a special address reflecting on the day's significance and its connection to current events in Israel. He emphasized that although Tisha B'Av marks the destruction of the First and Second Temples and has been a day of national mourning, it is also destined to become a day of joy and redemption, citing rabbinic teachings that the Messiah was born on this day.

Rabbi Amar drew parallels between the biblical Exodus from Egypt and the present era, noting that just as the Israelites endured severe oppression before their redemption, today’s Jewish people are progressing through stages toward the ultimate redemption. He highlighted the miraculous events since Israel’s establishment nearly 80 years ago, including the Six-Day War and the return of holy sites such as the Temple Mount and the Cave of the Patriarchs.

Despite these advances, Rabbi Amar acknowledged the challenges and spiritual battles faced in these messianic times, warning against the forces of evil that seek to sow discord and distance people from Torah scholars. He urged steadfast faith and courage, quoting Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me."

Concluding, the Chief Rabbi expressed hope that soon the "shofar of the Messiah" will sound, signaling the completion of spiritual and worldly redemption. He envisioned Tisha B'Av transforming into a great festival of salvation and joy for the Jewish people, with divine glory restored and universal recognition of God’s sovereignty.

Summary: Rabbi Shlomo Moshe Amar marked Tisha B'Av by linking its mourning to future redemption, urging faith amid current spiritual struggles in Israel and anticipating the Messiah’s arrival.