0 saved#5,801 of 6,224

Fast of Tammuz

Mark the beginning of the three weeks of solemn reflection with the Fast of Tammuz, commemorating the fall of Jerusalem's walls.

Wednesday

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEFast of Tammuz (17 Tammuz)

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYJewish

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Embrace a day of spiritual reflection and history with the Fast of Tammuz on July 23! This sacred day marks the start of a three-week period of mourning in the Jewish tradition, commemorating the fall of Jerusalem's walls before the destruction of the Second Temple. The Fast of Tammuz dates back thousands of years but its message of reflection, repentance, and hope is as relevant today as ever. Join in this solemn but enlightening observance, and deepen your understanding of a significant part of Jewish history.

TIMELINE

Fast of Tammuz Timeline

Fall of Solomon's Temple

On the 17th of Tammuz, Nebuchadnezzar II breaches Jerusalem's walls, leading to the destruction of the First Temple (Solomon's Temple).

Destruction of the Second Temple

On the same date, Roman soldiers breach the walls of Jerusalem resulting in the desecration and destruction of the Second Temple.

Began as Day of Mourning

Following major tragedies including the fall of Betar, the Fast of Tammuz evolves into a day of mourning and spiritual reflection in Jewish tradition.

Codification in Shulchan Aruch

The Fast of Tammuz is officially codified as part of the Jewish liturgical calendar in the Shulchan Aruch, a widely accepted compilation of Jewish law.

Commemoration in Modern Israel

Whereas the Fast of Tammuz was traditionally observed on the 17th of the Hebrew month, modern Israel begins to officially recognize the fast on July 23rd.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Fast of Tammuz

Reflect on history

Prepare for the Fast of Tammuz by reading about the historical significance of this day. Discover the events leading to the fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the Second Temple, and reflect on how these events have influenced present-day Judaism and what lessons can be learned from them.

ATTEND

Attend a synagogue service

Visit your local synagogue for a service honoring the Fast of Tammuz. Participating in community prayers and mourning can be a powerful and humbling experience, deepening your connection to the Jewish faith and history.

FAST

Fast in solidarity

Following the traditional practice, partake in fasting from dawn until dusk. Fasting serves as a tangible reminder of the day's solemnity and allows time for personal reflection and atonement.

ENGAGE

Engage in meaningful conversation

Convene with family and friends to discuss the Fast of Tammuz and what it personally means to you. Sharing interpretations and emotions can foster a deeper understanding of the holiday and create a spirit of communal solidarity.

COMPOSE

Compose your thoughts

Use this day of reflection as an opportunity to journal your thoughts, feelings, and insights. Writing not only helps to clarify your thoughts but also serves as a personal record of your religious and spiritual journey.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Fast of Tammuz is Important

Fosters Community Solidarity

Community is at the heart of this observance. The collective participation in fasting, attending synagogue services, and engaging in reflective conversations during this period enhances the shared sense of belonging, fostering communal support, empathy and unity.

Commemoration of Significant Historical Events

The Fast of Tammuz is a solemn reminder of poignant periods in Jewish history, specifically, the fall of Jerusalem's walls and subsequent destruction of the Second Temple. This observance fosters a stronger connection to our historical past and its enduring impacts on contemporary faith practices.

Promotes Reflection and Atonement

The Fast of Tammuz not only serves as a period of mourning, but also constitutes a time for personal reflection and repentance. It's a powerful opportunity to introspect, understand our shortcomings, and strive towards higher spiritual growth.