7 Common Questions About the Fast of the Seventeenth of Tammuz

The Seventeenth of Tammuz marks the beginning of the Three Weeks, a period of mourning over the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash and other tragedies that befell the Jewish people. As the fast approaches, many practical questions arise about work, travel, shopping, and the customs observed during this time.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions.

1. Why Do We Fast on the Seventeenth of Tammuz?

Five tragic events occurred on this day:

• Moshe Rabbeinu shattered the first Tablets after seeing the Golden Calf.
• The daily Korban Tamid ceased during the First Temple period.
• The walls of Jerusalem were breached before the destruction of the Second Temple.
• The wicked Apostomus publicly burned a Torah scroll.
• An idol was placed in the Beit HaMikdash.

Although Jerusalem's walls were breached on the Ninth of Tammuz during the First Temple era, the fast was established on the Seventeenth of Tammuz because the destruction of the Second Temple has greater practical significance for us today.

2. Can You Buy Gifts or Household Items During the Three Weeks?

Yes.

It is permitted to buy gifts, cosmetics, perfume, and necessary household items during the Three Weeks.

However, one should avoid purchasing new clothing, especially as Tisha B'Av approaches, since this falls under the general custom of limiting activities associated with joy during this period.

3. Is It Permitted to Go to Work on the Fast Day?

Absolutely.

There is no halachic prohibition against going to work on the Seventeenth of Tammuz. Most people continue their regular work schedules while observing the fast.

4. What If You Missed the Time to Eat Before the Fast Began?

The fast must be observed from beginning to end.

Someone who is healthy and capable of fasting should not eat after the fast begins, even if they forgot to wake up before the deadline.

However, a person who genuinely cannot fast due to illness or extreme weakness may be exempt from fasting altogether. Each situation should be evaluated according to halachic guidance.

5. Do You Need to Drink More Water While Flying?

In general, someone traveling by plane should still observe the fast normally.

If the person does not feel unusually weak or have a medical concern, they should continue fasting and refrain from drinking, even while flying.

6. Can You Take an Exam During the Three Weeks?

There is no prohibition against taking a driving test or other exam during the Three Weeks.

Nevertheless, some rabbis advise avoiding major tests during the month of Av if possible, based on the tradition that this period is less favorable for success.

The mourning customs observed during the Three Weeks include refraining from music, avoiding new clothing, not reciting Shehecheyanu over new acquisitions, and avoiding haircuts. Marriage customs vary between Sephardic and Ashkenazic communities.

7. Can You Fly During the Three Weeks?

Travel to Israel is considered a mitzvah and is permitted during the Three Weeks.

Other flights are generally permitted when there is a genuine need. However, some authorities recommend avoiding unnecessary leisure travel during this period because of the custom to exercise additional caution regarding potentially risky activities.

What About Entertainment on the Fast Day?

There is no formal prohibition against using a computer or watching television on the Seventeenth of Tammuz.

However, since the day is meant to inspire reflection and mourning, it is preferable to avoid activities focused on enjoyment, at least until midday, and to spend some time thinking about the meaning of the day and the events it commemorates.