The Tenth of Tevet is observed worldwide as a minor Jewish fast day that commemorates the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylonia, which began on the tenth day of the Hebrew month of Tevet. This siege ultimately led to the destruction of the First Temple and the conquest of the Kingdom of Judah. The day also marks other historical calamities, including the translation of the Torah into Greek on the eighth of Tevet and the deaths of Ezra the Scribe and Nehemiah on the ninth. The fast begins at dawn and concludes at nightfall, with fasting being the primary physical constraint; however, bathing, washing, and wearing leather shoes are not prohibited. Those who are ill, pregnant, or nursing are exempt from fasting. Additionally, the Chief Rabbinate of Israel has designated the Tenth of Tevet as a “general kaddish day” to remember the victims of the Holocaust.