Tradition: a fast is observed on Tammuz 17, to commemorate several sad events, including the smashing of the Tablets of the Law by Moses, following the sin of the Golden Calf and the breaching of the walls of Jerusalem by the Romans during the time of the Second Temple.

Sign of the Zodiak: The Crab.

In nature: the open fields turn yellow and weeds are in full bloom.

Written by Dr. Dov Herman, Bar-Ilan University.

The stamp was issued in 2002, one of 12 stamps dedicated to the months of The Hebrew Calendar. Designer: Miri Sofer. Zodiak sign stamp issued 1961, designer: I. Blaushild.