The Hebrew month of Av has long been marked by sorrow, and by deep opportunity. Though it falls in the height of summer, Av carries a weight of destruction and remembrance that calls believers to pause, reflect and realign their hearts with God’s purposes. It’s more than a calendar note; it’s an invitation to see how history’s darkest days can sharpen our faith.
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On a recent Curt Landry Podcast episode, Rabbi Curt Landry and Darrell Puckett dove into Av’s significance. They explained that “there are patterns and shadows of patterns inside the Hebrew calendar where you see things happen…in a cycle and they happen around the same time,” while reflecting on how recognizing these patterns “helps you plan for your personal life and your goals to grow.”
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Historical tragedies on the 9th of Av include:
- The 10 spies’ negative report from Canaan (Num. 13–14)
- Nebuchadnezzar’s destruction of Solomon’s Temple (586 BC)
- The Romans’ destruction of the Second Temple (70 AD)
- The fall of Betar fortress in the Bar Kokhba revolt (c. 132 AD)
- Massacre of Jews in York, England (1190 AD)
- Expulsion of Jews from England (1290 AD)
- Expulsion from Spain (1492 AD)
- Outbreak of World War I—leading toward the Holocaust (1914 AD)
- Gaza’s Gush Katif expulsion (2005 AD)
Five practical responses for the month of Av:
- Repentance.
“This is a month when you say things like father god search me and know me for I desire truth in my inward parts.” Use this season to reflect, confess, and close doors to anything that leads you away from obedience. - Listening to the Spirit.
“This is a time when you need to purposely get some quiet time where you can practice hearing the voice of the Lord and the presence of God.” Turn down the world’s clamor so you can tune in to His guidance. - Waiting on the Lord.
“Do not change plans. Stick to the path…do not turn to the right or the left. Be like a Clydesdale. Put on the blinders…and just keep moving forward.” Trust God’s timing—even if it feels like everything around you is collapsing. - Protecting your ears.
“This is a month where you need to be very careful to protect your ears…be careful to what you’re listening to and who you’re listening to.” Guard against complaining voices and toxic negativity. - Avoiding impulsivity.
“Don’t act impulsively. And do not make decisions angry. If you start to get angry, then disengage.” When frustration flares, step back—don’t let harsh words or rash choices steal your peace.
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Though Av’s history is heavy, the season also brims with grace. As Christians, Av reminds us that even the darkest cycles can point us back to the light of Jesus. Let this month be your invitation to deeper repentance, clearer hearing of the Spirit and renewed trust in the Lord, drawing ever closer to Him in every step.
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
