The Fast of the Tenth of Tevet, observed this year on Tuesday, December 30th, marks the day when the Babylonian king began the siege of Jerusalem, leading to the destruction of the First Temple and the exile of the people from their land. This fast, instituted by the Prophets, is one of four days commemorating the tragic events surrounding the Temple's destruction, each serving as a time for reflection, repentance, and special prayers.

In addition to its historical significance, the day has been designated by the Israeli Chief Rabbinate as a memorial for Holocaust victims whose date of passing is unknown, with special prayers recited in their memory. The period also recalls other somber events, including the death of Ezra the Scribe and the translation of the Torah into Greek, both seen as moments of loss for the community and tradition.