Tenth of Tevet 2025

Description

Tenth of Tevet is a day of mourning in the Jewish calendar. It remembers a very sad chapter in Jewish history. People use the day to think about loss and about standing together.

The date is the tenth day of the Hebrew month called Tevet. That usually falls in December or January on the regular calendar. The Hebrew calendar is lunar and solar, so the exact date changes each year.

The day marks the start of the siege of Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar in 589 BCE. The siege led to famine and hardship, and it eventually led to the destruction of the Temple and the exile of many people from the land.

Tenth of Tevet is significant because it marks the beginning of a long national tragedy. It reminds Jewish communities of the consequences of division and the need for moral reflection and unity across generations.

Traditions

On Tenth of Tevet many people fast from dawn until night. They go to synagogue for extra prayers, special Torah readings, and recitations of kinnot, which are lament poems. The mood is quiet and serious.

Families often study prophetic and historical texts together. Some communities hold public learning sessions or short sermons about those readings. People give charity and help others as part of the observance.

When the fast ends at night families break it with a light meal. Typical foods are bread, soup, dairy dishes and sweet pastries. There are no celebrations or music, and people keep the evening calm and reflective.

Travel Tips

Check opening hours before you go. Some shops, museums and restaurants may close or have shorter hours. Public transport can run on a reduced schedule in some places. Expect more people near synagogues and community centers, especially mornings and evenings.

Be quiet and respectful near religious sites. Wear modest clothes and avoid loud music. Carry water, a light snack and any meds you need. Join a community event if invited, or visit parks and open-air sites for a calm, meaningful experience.