The name of the fifth month on the Jewish calendar (counting from Nisan), Av, literally means “father.” It is customary to add the name “Menachem,” which means “comforter” or “consoler”—so Menachem Av.  Month of contrasts.

 

Tisha B’Av – Ninth of AV – saddest day in Jewish tradition and Jewish calendar. Day of fasting and mourning.