A weekly feature of Torah Tidbits to help clarify practical and conceptual aspects of the Jewish Calendar, thereby better fulfilling the mitzva of HaChodesh HaZeh Lachem...

Cheshvan has some serious dates concerning RAIN. The Mishna states that we begin asking for rain on 3 Cheshvan. This view is rejected in favor of Rabban Gamliel's opinion of 7 Cheshvan. If it has not begun to rain by 17 Cheshvan, individuals would fast and pray on behalf of the community. This was the same date as the beginningof the Flood. Hence, the 17th of Cheshvan is associated both with no rain and with bad rain - both of which are bad for us. With the 17th just behind us, and only a drizzle or two so far, we must redouble our efforts of prayer and self-improvement. May we be blessed with a good winter.