Dancing Daughters

Free translation of a discourse by
the Lubavitcher Rebbe,
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson
The Fifteenth of Av 5743-1983

by Rabbi David Rothschild

Introduction

Dancing Daughters

A Mishna states, "Israel doesn't have holidays similar to the Fifteenth of Av (T'u B'Av) and Yom Kippur. Since on T'u B'Av the daughters of Jerusalem and Israel went into the vineyards dancing and said 'young man, please lift up your eyes and look'."

Obviously the Torah doesn't sanction promiscuousness. What do dancing girls signify? And who is the young man they entice?

The Jewish people are compared to the moon. And on T'u B'Av the moon is complete. What, though is unique about this full moon? After all, several other major holidays also occur when the moon is whole.

A general principle applies to matters of Divinity. Every descent has a hidden purpose: a subsequent elevation. This rule also applies to the Ninth of Av. It embodies the ultimate downfall; its tragedies are unequalled throughout history. Consequently, the extent of its elevation must match its severe decline.

What links the catastrophes, commemorated by the Ninth of Av with the Fifteenth of Av.

In "Dancing Daughters," the Lubavitcher Rebbe answers these questions and more. Drawing from a wealth of Kabbalistic and Talmudic material, as well as numerous verses from Tanach, the Rebbe delivers a beautiful and profound exposition of the above quoted Mishna.

He also reveals the secrets of the soul's origin. The inner meaning of Jerusalem is discussed in a manner found nowhere else. Practical advice for Jewish unity and love of your neighbor are offered.

To understand the secrets of Tu b'Av and more, click here.

Full text is 3000 words approx.