Tu B'Av Program Flyer

Ono Celebrates T”u B’Av – “Jewish Valentines Day”

Tu B’Av is a Jewish holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Av. It is often referred to as the “Jewish Valentine’s Day” due to its historical association with matchmaking and romantic love.

The holiday has been historically celebrated in the following contexts:

  • Matchmaking and Weddings: In ancient times, Tu B’Av was a significant day for matchmaking and weddings. It was believed to be a propitious time for couples to find their life partners.
  • End of Mourning Period: Tu B’Av also marked the end of the traditional three-week mourning period leading up to the destruction Temple in Jerusalem. Jewish sages made it a day of celebration and renewal.

In recent times, the holiday has taken on additional meaning.

While Tu B’Av is not as widely celebrated today as it was in ancient times, some Jewish communities still observe it in various ways:

  • Romantic Celebrations: Couples may choose to celebrate Tu B’Av by going on dates, exchanging gifts, or simply spending quality time together.
  • Religious Observances: Some religious Jews may attend synagogue services or perform special prayers on Tu B’Av.
  • Community Events: Some Jewish communities may organize special events or gatherings to celebrate Tu B’Av, such as picnics, concerts, or matchmaking parties.

Overall, Tu B’Av is a holiday that celebrates love, joy, and renewal. While its historical significance is rooted in ancient times, it continues to be celebrated in various ways by Jewish communities around the world.

Ono Academic College’s Religious Zionist Authority and its Lev Berliner Social Beit Midrash led by Beit Midrash Direector, Rabbi Dani Lavi, held a special event to mark Tu B’Av. The event, entitled, “300 Dates,” was a public conversation with a Odalia Arbiv, a graduate of Ono’s Religious Zionist Administration program and currently a national lecturer and author. They discussed matchmaking, dating and everything in between.

The Beit Midrash conducts study monthly study sessions open to all members of the Ono community.