Seventeenth of Tammuz

Nebuchadnezzar's army burns

"The Siege and Destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans Under the Command of Titus, A.D. 70" by

Seventeenth of Tammuz (Shiv'ah Asar B'Tammuz) is a Jewish fast day commemorating the breach of the walls of Jerusalem before the destruction of the Second Temple. It marks the beginning of the three-week mourning period leading up to Tisha B'Av. The day falls on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, which is in June or July in the Gregorian calendar.

History

The origins of the Seventeenth of Tammuz are found in the Tanakh, where it is mentioned that the walls of Jerusalem were breached by the Babylonians before the destruction of the First Temple. However, the fast as it is observed today primarily commemorates the breach of Jerusalem's walls by the Romans in 70 CE, leading to the Second Temple's destruction on Tisha B'Av.

Observance

On the Seventeenth of Tammuz, observant Jews fast from dawn until dusk. The fast entails refraining from eating and drinking, as well as additional restrictions such as abstaining from bathing, wearing leather shoes, and marital relations. The purpose of the fast is to mourn the commencement of the destruction of the Jewish temples and to inspire reflection and repentance.

Prayers and liturgy on this day include the addition of Selichot (penitential prayers) and the reading of the Book of Exodus 32:11–14 and 34:1–10 in the morning service. The afternoon service includes the reading of Isaiah 55:6–56:8, which calls for seeking the Lord while He may be found.

Significance

The Seventeenth of Tammuz is significant not only for its historical context but also for its role in the Jewish liturgical year. It marks the start of a period known as "The Three Weeks" or "Bein ha-Metzarim," a time of increased mourning and reflection that culminates in Tisha B'Av, the day commemorating the destruction of both the First and Second Temples.

Related Customs and Traditions

During the Three Weeks, certain customs and traditions are observed to express mourning. These include refraining from holding weddings, listening to music, cutting hair, and making significant purchases. The intensity of mourning increases with the arrival of the Nine Days beginning on Rosh Chodesh Av, leading up to Tisha B'Av.

In Modern Times

In modern times, the Seventeenth of Tammuz is observed by Jews around the world as a day of communal and personal reflection. It serves as a reminder of the tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history and emphasizes the importance of unity, repentance, and rebuilding.