The Jewish 9 Days and the Tradition of Avoiding Meat (+ Recipes!)

The Jewish calendar is rich with traditions and observances that connect us to our history and spiritual roots. One significant period is the “9 Days,” a time of mourning leading up to Tisha B’Av, the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. During these nine days, many Jews refrain from eating meat, among other practices, to commemorate the tragedies that have befallen our people, particularly the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

What are the Jewish 9 Days?

The 9 Days, starting from the first day of the Hebrew month of Av until the fast of Tisha B’Av on the 9th of Av, are a period of intense mourning. Tisha B’Av, meaning the 9th of Av, is a solemn day marked by fasting and lamentation, as it commemorates several catastrophic events in Jewish history, including the destruction of both Temples.

Why We Don’t Eat Meat During the 9 Days

One of the most notable customs during the 9 Days is the abstention from eating meat. This practice is rooted in Jewish tradition and law, serving as a form of mourning and self-restraint. Here are the primary reasons behind this custom:

1. Symbol of Mourning: Meat is traditionally associated with celebration and joy. By refraining from eating meat, we express our collective sorrow and mourning for the loss of the Temples and other tragedies.
2. Commemoration of Sacrifices: The destruction of the Temples brought an end to the ritual sacrifices, many of which involved animals. Avoiding meat during the 9 Days is a way to commemorate the cessation of these sacrificial offerings.
3. Elevated Mourning: The 9 Days are a time of heightened mourning, especially for those who may not fully observe the three weeks preceding Tisha B’Av. Avoiding meat serves as a tangible reminder of the solemn nature of this period.

Observances During the 9 Days

In addition to abstaining from meat, there are several other customs and restrictions observed during the 9 Days:

1. No Wine: Similar to meat, wine is often associated with joy and festivity. Therefore, it is also avoided during this period.
2. No New Clothing: Purchasing or wearing new clothing is generally avoided to limit feelings of joy and luxury.
3. Limited Bathing: Some refrain from bathing for pleasure, keeping cleanliness to a minimum necessary level.
4. No Music: Listening to live or recorded music is often avoided to maintain a somber atmosphere.
5. Avoiding Haircuts: Haircuts and shaving are postponed as acts of mourning.

Vegetarian and Dairy Recipes for the 9 Days

Given the restriction on meat, many Jewish families turn to vegetarian and dairy dishes during the 9 Days. That’s where we come in! Here’s a list of some of our favorite vegetarian Prep + Rally dinners but there are LOADS more in the archives so don’t forget to check the recipes section

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1. Salmon with Tahini Yogurt Sauce
2. Spaghetti Squash Cacio e Pepe
3. Orecciette Pasta with Summer Squash and Corn
4. Shawarma Salmon
5. The Ultimate Salmon Burger
6. Spaghetti Pie
7. Beer Battered Cod with Cilantro Garlic Aioli and Cowboy Caviarf
8. Salmon Bites
9. Blackened Cod Sandwiches with Kale and Cabbage Slaw
10. Veggie Lasagna Skillet
11. Salmon Pasta Stir Fry
12. Animal Fries
13. Loaded Greek Potato Wedges with Scallion Dipping Sauce
14. Peanut Satay Veggie Lo Main
15. The Best Mexican Corn Salad 
16. One Pot Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Pasta 
17. Avocado Summer Rolls 
18. Charred Corn White Pizza