Definition

Proper noun A minor Jewish fast day observed on the third day of the Hebrew month of Tishri, commemorating the assassination of Gedaliah, the Jewish governor of Judah appointed by the Babylonians after the destruction of the First Temple.

Usage

The term "Fast of Gedaliah" is used specifically to refer to this religious observance. * The community will observe the Fast of Gedaliah at dawn. * A central theme of the Fast of Gedaliah is the tragic consequences of internal strife.

Advanced Usage

• The day is also known by its Hebrew name, Tzom Gedaliah.
• If the third of Tishri falls on a Sabbath, the fast is postponed to the following day (the fourth of Tishri).

Variants and Related Words

• Tzom Gedaliah: The Hebrew name for the Fast of Gedaliah.
• Minor Fast: A category of Jewish fast days that are observed from dawn to nightfall, which includes the Fast of Gedaliah, the Fast of Esther, the Fast of the Tenth of Tevet, and the Fast of the 17th of Tammuz.

Different Meanings

This term has a single, specific meaning as a proper noun referring to the Jewish fast day. It is not used in other contexts.

Synonyms

• Tzom Gedaliah (This is a direct translation/alternate name, not a true synonym with different wording).

Noun

1. (Judaism) a minor fast day on Tishri 3 that commemorates the killing of the Jewish governor of Judah