If you see Yerushalayim in its present destroyed state (gentiles have control) you say “Tzion was a desolate wilderness” and tear your clothes. Do not have meat or wine that entire day. Then, when you see the destroyed Mikdosh you say “Our Holy and glorious house that our forefathers praised You in has become fuel for fire and all of our cherished relics have been ruined”, then tear again three finger breadths away from the first tear. (ShA 2 – MB 8)
Wait until you get closer for a good view. (MB 7)
If you encounter the Mikdosh first and tear on it, you don’t have to tear again when you see Yerushalayim. Just lengthen the first tear a little. (ShA 2)
Tear your clothes opposite your heart to bare your skin. The kria is done with your hands (not a kli) while standing. (ShA 4 – MB 12)
Each tear should be a tefach long and should not be mended. You may sew it up the next day using uneven stitching. (ShA 2, 4 – MB 15)
Tear on Yerushalayim and the Mikdosh if you haven’t seen it in 30 days. (ShA 5)
If you were born and raised in Yerushalayim, you do not have to tear when you become bar mitzva. (MB 17)
