The Nine Days

Hello,

We have been learning about the Jewish mourning period for the Temple, a period which begins today and continues through the 9th of Av (Sunday August 10th this year). This period of mourning intensifies during its final nine days, starting with the first day of Av (August 2nd this year) and building up to the 9th of Av.

During the nine days preceding the 9th of Av, we don't plant trees or engage in building projects, if these projects are for enjoyment rather than necessity.

However, one who has hired a non-Jew (paying by the job rather than the hour) before the nine-day period, without giving him a deadline forcing him to work during the nine days specifically, may allow him to continue his work during the nine-day mourning period.

(Code of Jewish Law Orach Chaim 551:2; Mishneh Berurah 551:12)

Be well,
Mordechai