The 9th of Av

My apologies for lack of recent posts as I've been writing thoughts for the 9th of Av which ended this evening. Given the trials and tribulations of Jews throughout the world, the tragedies recalled on the 9th of Av (the destruction of the Temples, the Crusades, the Holocaust, etc.) are more relevant and meaningful as we put our current troubles into historical perspective.

I've noted in the past of Narnia's lack of holidays (besides Christmas). I should also note a lack of fast days. Nonetheless, Lewis understands what happens when we have none. Moving to the beginning, we know that the curse of the White Witch not only kept Christmas away but also disrupted the ebb and flow of the calendar. Of course, people (and presumably talking animals) are naturally drawn to the days of happiness and joy, but they are rendered less meaningful without the sorrow of days of fasting and mourning. The curse of the White Witch was to remove both, causing unending repetitive days taking away the highs and lows, forcing all of life to conform to her time. 

So too on the historical level. The White Witch's freezing of time, while felt immediately on the yearly cycle aimed to steady all of history. No longer should there be victories or defeats. No longer should there be years of blessing or years of cursing. All should remain bland and constant under her rule. 

The victory of Aslan opens the door for a return to history. And while the past year and half have been painful ones for the Jewish people, we already know that end of the story is one of victory and celebration. The only mystery is how we will get there, but even the tragedies are a step in the path of redemption rendered all the more meaningful by the pain of the journey.