shtrat

Shtrat is a traditional Jewish ritual performed on the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av, known as Tisha B'Av. The term "shtrat" refers to the act of sitting in a somber and contemplative manner, often accompanied by fasting and prayer. The purpose of shtrat is to mourn the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, as well as to express deep sorrow for the various calamities that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history.

The shtrat is typically conducted in a synagogue or a designated prayer space. Participants sit on the floor, facing Jerusalem, and recite specific prayers and litanies. The most well-known of these is the "Echad Mi Yodea" prayer, which asks God to reveal the time of the Messiah's arrival. The shtrat is often accompanied by the blowing of the shofar, a ram's horn, to symbolize the sound of mourning.

The shtrat is a deeply emotional and introspective experience for many Jews. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and faith of the Jewish people in the face of adversity. The practice of shtrat is an important aspect of Jewish tradition and is observed by Jews around the world.