(5772) July 8, 2012 (fast deferred)

Shiva Asar B'Tammuz (Fast of the 17th of Tammuz) is a Rabbinic fast day that occurs on 17 Tammuz (in June or July). The 17th of Tammuz is a day-fast commemorating the many tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people on this day. This day is celebrated by the fast, special prayers, and the beginning of the Three Weeks (the annual period of mourning over the destruction of the First and Second Temples).

Five tragedies (Taanit 26b) that have befallen the Jewish people on this date are:
Moses smashed the Tablets of the Covenant at Mount Sinai
Daily tamid (twice-daily sacrificial) offerings ceased
The walls of Jersualem were breached by the Romans
Roman military leader Apostomus burned a Sefer Torah (Torah Scroll)
An idol was erected in the Holy Temple by King Menashe

Additional Information: The 17th of Tammuz

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