Asarah B'Tevet in the United States

Asarah B'Tevet is a minor Jewish fast day observed on the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tevet. In the United States, as in other parts of the world where Jewish communities reside, this day commemorates a series of tragic events in Jewish history, most notably the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylonia in 588 BCE, an event that eventually led to the destruction of the First Temple and the Babylonian Exile.

History

The history behind Asarah B'Tevet is rooted in Biblical times. The siege laid by Nebuchadnezzar was a pivotal moment that set off a chain reaction leading to numerous calamities for the ancient Jews. The fast is observed according to Jewish tradition as outlined in Zechariah 8:19.

Traditions

• Fasting: Observant Jews fast from dawn to nightfall. The fast symbolizes mourning and reflection on collective tragedies.
• Prayer: Special prayers known as "Selichot" are added to the morning prayer services. A Torah portion is read, and there is an additional service called "Mincha" in which the Book of Exodus is read.
• Reflection: As a minor fast, restrictions are less stringent than those on major fast days like Yom Kippur or Tisha B'Av. However, it remains a solemn day for introspection.

What People Do

Individuals who observe this day will:

• Participate in fasting and refrain from eating or drinking from dawn until nightfall.
• Attend synagogue services where special prayers are recited.
• Engage in self-reflection and consider ways to improve their spiritual lives.
• Some may study texts related to Jerusalem's history or themes concerning destruction and redemption.

In contemporary times, Asarah B'Tevet has also been linked with Holocaust remembrance due to its association with sieges and tragedies befalling the Jewish people.