The 9th of Av

Here in the United States we have certain dates that we have set aside to remember our history. The 4th of July is one of them. We declared our independence from England on that day.

The Jewish people have many such days as well. The 9th of Av is one of them. Av is the 6th month on the Jewish calendar.

So what's so significant about Av 9? You will be amazed at this list (from RaptureReady.com).

Av 9, 1312 BC – Only two of the twelve spies sent by Moses to observe the land of Canaan, Joshua and Caleb, returned with a positive report. The ten-spy report caused the Hebrews to cry, panic, and despair of ever entering their Promised Land. For this, they were punished, and God decreed that their generation would not enter the land and that for all future generations, this date would become one of crying and misfortune for their descendants, the Jewish people (Numbers 13:25-14:12, Zechariah 7:3-5, 8:19).

"The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them?" - Numbers 13:11

Then there is the First and Second Temple Destructions . . .

Av 9, 586 BC – The First Temple built by King Solomon was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar, and the Judeans were sent into Babylonian exile. About 100,000 Jews were killed during the invasion. The remaining tribes in the southern kingdom were exiled to Babylon and Persia.

Av 9, 70 AD – The Second Temple built by Ezra and Nehemiah was destroyed by the Romans on August 4, 70 AD. Over 2,500,000 Jews died as a result of war, famine and disease. Over 1,000,000 Jews were exiled to all parts of the Roman Empire. Over 100,000 Jews were sold as slaves by Romans or were killed and tortured in gladiatorial “games” and pagan celebrations.

[For a complete list, including events in our lifetime, check out this link.]

The reason I am mentioning this now is that August 12th-13th is the 9th of Av this year (it begins today at sundown). With all of the trouble brewing in the Middle East right now, do not be surprised if something significant happens. I'm not saying that it will, but let's just call it a "high-watch" day.

Will Iran retaliate against Israel on the 9th of Av? Sundown in Israel will be around 12:50 Central time. Pray for Israel.

"It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the Living God." - Hebrews 10:31