Definition

Noun: - (Judaism) A minor Jewish fast day: The Fast of Tevet is a minor fast day observed on the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tevet. It primarily commemorates the beginning of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, an event that led to the destruction of the First Temple. In modern times, it has also been designated as a general memorial day (Yom HaKaddish HaKlali) for Jews who died in the Holocaust, particularly those whose date of death is unknown.

Usage

The term "Fast of Tevet" is used as a proper noun to refer to this specific religious observance. - The Fast of Tevet is observed from dawn until nightfall. - Our community gathers for a special service on the Fast of Tevet.

Advanced Usage

• "to observe the Fast of Tevet": To abide by the rules of the fast, which typically involve abstaining from food and drink.
  • Even though it's a minor fast, many devout Jews observe the Fast of Tevet.
• "the significance of the Fast of Tevet": Refers to the historical and memorial meanings associated with the day.
  • The rabbi spoke about the dual significance of the Fast of Tevet.

Variants and Related Words

• Asara B'Tevet (noun): The Hebrew name for the Fast of Tevet, meaning "the Tenth [day] of Tevet."
  • Asara B'Tevet is the more common term used in Hebrew and in many Jewish communities.
• Minor fast (noun phrase): A category of Jewish fast days that are less stringent than major fasts like Yom Kippur or Tisha B'Av. The Fast of Tevet is classified as a minor fast.
  • Unlike Yom Kippur, minor fasts like the Fast of Tevet begin at dawn.

Synonyms

• Asara B'Tevet: The direct Hebrew equivalent.
• The Tenth of Tevet: A literal English translation of the Hebrew name.

Related Terms and Concepts

• Siege of Jerusalem: The historical event commemorated by the original establishment of the fast.
• Yom HaKaddish HaKlali (noun): The "General Day of Kaddish," the modern memorial designation attached to this day for Holocaust victims.
• Tisha B'Av (noun): A major fast day in the summer commemorating the destruction of both the First and Second Temples, related in theme to the Fast of Tevet.

Noun

1. (Judaism) a minor fast day on Tevet 10 commemorates the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem and has also been proclaimed a memorial day for the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust