Tu B’Av, the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Av, is a joyous and special day in the Jewish calendar. Often referred to as the “Jewish Day of Love,” it has historical significance as a day when matchmaking and marriages were encouraged in ancient times. On this occasion, let us explore the inspiring stories of some g’dolim (great Jewish leaders) who exemplified the essence of Tu B’Av through their love and devotion to others and to the Jewish people.
Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan (Chofetz Chaim):
The Chofetz Chaim, renowned for his teachings on the laws of proper speech (the opposite of lashon ha’ra), demonstrated love in his actions toward others. One day, a young man visited the Chofetz Chaim and asked for advice on how to find a suitable wife. The sage, known for his genuine care for others, responded by saying, “The key to a happy marriage is kindness. Seek a wife who embodies this trait.” The young man followed his counsel and married a woman known for her kind heart. Throughout their marriage, they exemplified the spirit of Tu B’Av by always seeking to enhance each other’s happiness and well-being.
Rebbetzin Batsheva Kanievsky:
Rebbetzin Batsheva Kanievsky, the wife of the esteemed Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky, was a beacon of love and compassion. She was known for her tireless efforts to support the less fortunate, even if it meant sacrificing her own comfort. On Tu B’Av, she would organize gatherings for single women who were seeking a shidduch (a suitable match). Rebbetzin Kanievsky would share stories of great love and commitment, encouraging the women to trust in Hashem’s plan for their futures. Her dedication to helping others find love and happiness was a testament to the spirit of Tu B’Av.
Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach:
Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, a beloved and influential figure in Jewish music and spirituality, taught the importance of love and unity among the Jewish people. He would often say, “Love is the secret of secrets,” emphasizing that love was the key to connecting with each other and with Hashem. On Tu B’Av, Rabbi Carlebach would organize musical gatherings and dance circles, bringing people of all backgrounds together to celebrate their shared heritage and deep love for Judaism. His infectious spirit of love and joy left a lasting impact on all who encountered him.
Tu B’Av calls upon us to love our fellow human beings, to seek unity within our communities, and to foster compassion for those in need. May we strive to embrace the spirit of Tu B’Av by showing love and kindness to one another, and by celebrating the beauty and richness of our shared heritage.
List of People Who Need a r’fuah sh’leimah (a complete recovery)
Please recite Psalms 20, 30, 88, 121, and 130.
Amnon ben Rivkah
Yosef Chaim ben Rivkah Rachel
Rafael Yaakov ben Ayelet
Daniel Aharon ben Davida
Yaakov Yisrael Pinchas ben Tovah
Eliezer Yosef ben Avivah Chanah
Yitzchak ben Mazal Tov
Refael Chayim Meir ben Sima Chasha
Shmuel Moshe ben Alta Sayta
Tinok ben Sharona
Shabsai ben Pesha Rachel
Eisan Meir ben Laura
Eliyahu ben Miriam
Eliyahu Ochil ben Suriah
Avner ben Tamara
Reuven Shalom ben Sarah Leah
Avner ben Tamara
Reuven Shalom ben Sarah Leah
Rachamim Rodshel ben Sarah
Esther Rivkah Chanah bas Tamar
Esther Hadassah bas Devorah
Mitali Naomi bas Gilah Farcha
Jaleh Sarah bas Victoria Devorah
Adinah bas Chanah
Emunah Rivkah bas Zilpah
Aliza Sima bas Shayna Brachah
Chayah Shaina bas Raizel
Esther bas Zilpah
Maya bas Michal
Eliana bas Nelli
Vica bas Rinah
Yaffah bas Eiza
Dinah bas Rachel
To add names of individuals who need a r’fuah sh’leimah to next week’s T’hilim column, please email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and complete the Google form.
