(5772) March 7, 2012

Taanit (Fast of) Esther is a Rabbinic fast day that occurs on 13 Adar-the day before Purim-(in February or March). It is a day-fast that commemorates the three-day fast of Esther, Mordechai, and all of Klal Yisrael as described in the book of Esther. It is celebrated by fasting, giving to the poor, prayer, and reading the Book of Esther (Megillah Esther).

Fasting begins at dawn and ends at sundown. This is one of the public fast days (the others being Tzom Gedaliah, Shiva Asarah B'Tammuz, and Asarah B'Tevet). If the Fast of Esther falls on Shabbat, the fast is observed the preceding Thursday. Eating and drinking are not permitted. Those in ill health, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children are exempt from the fast.

Additional Information: Fast of Esther :: The Fast of Esther :: Fast of Esther

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By Rachel-Esther bat-Avraham

As you look around the world today at what is happening to the Jewish people, ask yourself - "Would I have Queen Esther's courage?" Esther was a prisoner in the king's household and was favored among all his wives and concubines. Yet, even with a promise of great riches and ease of life, Esther never forgot about her people. Would you be able to say the same?

As we Jews - especially in the Diaspora - gain our riches and settle into our ease of life we all tend to forget about our people. We must remember that there are Jews throughout the world who are not as fortunate - who are being oppressed. Like Esther, we must not forget our people. We must not become settled in our comfortable daily lives and forget the oppression of our people.

As you fast today, remember your people and pray for their deliverance from oppression.

© Rachel-Esther bat-Avraham 2003-2012

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