Today we commemorate the fast of the tenth of Tevet, otherwise known as Asarah B’Tevet. The day in which the wicked Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, surrounded Jerusalem and laid siege to it beginning the process of the destruction of the First Temple, which was constructed during King Salomon’s reign.
Why would we continue to fast on this day after thousands of years have passed?
In our generation, the central emphasis on the Tenth of Tevet (as on other fasts) must be directed towards “Teshuvah” (return to our essence),by strengthening and encouraging every Jew, stressing that G-d loves him as he is. This love gives every individual the potential to reach his complete fulfillment in the study of Torah and mitzvots by fulfilling the purpose for which we were created. “For it’s something that is very near to you,” which means that it is attainable and not impossible.
To quote the previous Rebbe, “Immediately, lets us proceed to Teshuvah;immediately, we will proceed to redemption.” “For the only reason of the descent is the ascent!”
-Adapted from the talks of the Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson-
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