The Three Weeks: Mourning, Meaning, and a Call to Rebuild

The Three Weeks is a 21-day stretch in the summer—between the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av—set aside for national mourning. It marks the time between the breaching of Jerusalem’s walls by enemy forces and the eventual destruction of both the First and Second Temples, which once stood at the center of Jewish spiritual life. These weren’t just buildings—they represented connection, community, and purpose.

During this period, traditional Jewish practice includes avoiding celebrations like weddings, skipping music and haircuts, and not wearing new clothes. The mood is subdued, but the goal isn’t just sadness—it’s reflection and motivation. We’re encouraged to study more Torah, give more charity, and think deeply about how to repair a broken world.

Interestingly, none of this applies on Shabbat. Each Saturday during the Three Weeks is celebrated joyfully. The idea? Even in times of loss, hope and light still exist.

The Rebbe emphasized that studying the Temple’s structure and meaning is like spiritually rebuilding it. That’s the deeper message of the Three Weeks: reflection should lead to action. It’s a chance to think about the world we want to live in—and what role we can play in building it.

You don’t have to be religious to connect. Just being part of the story is a powerful place to start.