B"H

Thursday, Mar-Cheshvan 2, 5780 / October 31, 2019

This month is called Mar-Cheshvan.  Although the New Year began one month ago, this month of Mar-Cheshvan is the eighth month of the year. In the Hebrew calendar the New Year is not in the first month, but in the seventh month. In the Hebrew calendar (contrary to the secular calendar), the months are independent of the year. The first month is the month of Nissan in which we celebrate the holiday of Pesach (Passover). The month of Mar-Cheshvan is the eighth month of the year.

Q.The names of the Hebrew months that we use today, we redeveloped after the return from the Babylonian exile.  What was the original Hebrew name for the month of Cheshvan?

A.  The original Biblical name for the month of Cheshvan was "Bul".   In the month of Cheshvan, King Solomon completed the First Temple, which took seven years to build.  The Scriptures in Kings (I: 6) tells us, "And in the eleventh year in the month Bul, which is the 8th month, the House [of G-d] was completed." 

Q.   Why was this month called Bul?

A.   According to our sages, the name "Bul" for this month is related to this week's Parsha, Noah.  The Torah tells us that the Great Flood ("Mabul") began on the 17th day of this month. The waters came down in great force for a period of 40 days.  Only a year later, on the 27th of this month, was Noah able to exit the ark. The Biblical name, "Bul," is derived from the word "Mabul" - "flood."

Q.   Why is the word “Mar”added to Cheshvan?

A.   "Mar" means a "drop".  This refers to the fact that in this month begins the rainy season in Israel.

Another reason: "Mar" in Hebrew also means "bitter."  This alludes to some of the tragic events which took place in this month, dating back to Biblical times.  

Also, in contrast to the preceding month, Tishrei, which was full of holidays, this month, Cheshvan, has no holidays.  So we are left feeling somewhat bitter.  Thus, it is called, “Mar-Cheshvan.”

Our sages say that when the Beth Hamikdash (Holy Temple) was completed in Cheshvan, King Solomon should have celebrated its dedication in Cheshvan.  However, by G-dly decree the dedication was postponed for almost a year, to the month of Tishrei.  However, when Moshiach will come, G-d will re-pay the month of Cheshvan and there will be great celebrations. 

May it be speedily in our days– Amen.

HAVE A VERY GOOD, HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SUCCESSFUL DAY