Why Do We Fast On Bahab

                         Seven reasons for fasting Ta’anis Bahab.

1)      Chillul Hashem & for the Heichal that was burnt .  ( Ms. Sofrim 21)

2)      Men & women mingle during the Drasha on Yom Tov  (Tosfos Kidushin 81a)

3)      Men & women overeat  & mingle during the meals (Eshkol)

4)      Rain for winter and no harsh  spring weather so the crops won’t get damaged. (Elya Raba)

5)      Change of seasons(winter & summer) shouldn’t be harmful for the people. (Levush)

6)      Hashem should ease  the Galus . (Machzor Vitri)

7)      Zilzul Chol Hamoed (Maharam  miRotenberg)

No Fancy Food

The Elya Raba (O.Ch. 492) quotes the Haghaos Oshri, “ Those who do not fast Ta’anis Bahab, must at least refrain from eating delicacies on the Ta’anis."