Studying the Song of Songs
Question
Is it permitted to study the Song of Songs on Tisha B'Av, and if it is forbidden, what is the meaning in Responsa Halachot Ketanot Part 2, Siman 139?
Answer
Shalom!
It is forbidden to study the Song of Songs on Tisha B'Av, unless one studies it in the manner indicated by the Halachot Ketanot there: 'In my opinion, if a person sets himself to read the Song of Songs, if he reads it with heartfelt intention, he will grieve and cry more than while reading the Book of Lamentations, because in his studying the exaltation, the loftiness, the attachment, and the desire that the Holy One, blessed be He, had with Israel, and now, because of our numerous sins, we cry out, we cry out and there is no one who pays heed, the crying and the mourning will very much increase.'
Source
Responsa Halachot Ketanot, Part 2, Chapter 139