עברית
Halachot and Customs
What is Permitted and Prohibited on the 17th of Tammuz?
Question
Hello,
In honor of the upcoming fast of the 17th of Tammuz, I would like to know what is permissible to do and what is not.
For instance, am I allowed to brush my teeth, shower, apply perfume, and listen to music?
Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
1. It is advisable not to brush your teeth on the fast of the 17th of Tammuz, but if you are in discomfort, you may be lenient. Just be careful to tilt your head so that you do not swallow any water - see here.
2. It is permissible to shower on the 17th of Tammuz (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 554:2). According to the custom of Sephardim, it is also permitted with hot water (Hazon Ovadia, Four Fasts, pages 21-22). However, the custom of Ashkenazim is to avoid a hot shower for the entire body, although a shower with cold water and washing the face, hands, and feet with hot water is permitted (Shaar Hatzion 554:38).
3. It is permissible to apply perfume.
4. One may not listen to songs accompanied by musical instruments during the three weeks (see responsa Yechave Da'at, part 6, Section 30). Regarding listening to music on the fast of Gedaliah/Asara B'Tevet/Taanit Esther - see here.
Sincerely,
Hillel Meirs
