Esther Fast 2024: The Esther Fast is traditionally observed the day before the festival of Purim. In the current year, it is scheduled to be observed on March 23. We are here to provide you with guidance on how to most effectively commemorate the day. Are you aware that the passage of time since the composition of “The Book of Esther” surpassed two millennia? To observe the fast in remembrance of the events detailed in “The Book of Esther.” The Fast of Esther commences before the emergence of dawn and concludes at sunset; it is a minor fast day. During these hours, only food and water are prohibited; no other physical conveniences are permitted.
Esther Fast History
By observing The Fast of Esther, one commemorates the occurrences detailed in “The Book of Esther.” Some assert that a fast is observed on this day because Esther fasted for three days and three nights on this day. When Mordecai informed Esther of Haman’s intentions, it is believed that he proclaimed a three-day fast; Esther subsequently proposed that she and the Jewish community of Shushan observe a three-day fast. Haman, the progeny of Hammedatha the Agagite, reportedly expressed his displeasure upon learning that Mordechai declined to submit to his authority. Upon learning of Mordechai’s Jewish affiliation, he persuaded Ahasuerus to permit him to execute every individual belonging to the Jewish community.
Esther intervened and resolved to thwart Haman’s scheme. She invited Haman to a banquet. Haman accepted Esther’s invitation and begged for mercy while sitting on her sofa. However, Queen Esther had communicated to the King that Haman intended to execute her. The enraged monarch entered the banquet and was further infuriated when he mistook Haman’s presence on the couch for sexual advancement. Haman met his demise by hanging.
Certain scholars posit that the fast is observed in remembrance of the Jews who fasted before going into battle to obtain divine favor. Initially, King Ahasuerus issued orders to execute the Jews, which he was unable to revoke. Then, Ahasuerus commanded the Jews to retaliate by killing anyone who attempted to harm them. It is said that before engaging in combat and killing more than 75,000 men, the Jews fasted.
Jews have observed the Fast of Esther on the day preceding the festival of Purim for centuries. Additionally, some hold the belief that fasting serves to nullify the festivities and joyous atmosphere that characterize Purim.
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Esther Fast 2024 FAQs
Are Purim and Easter comparable?
As Purim is a day of celebration and feasting, it is frequently contrasted with other festivals such as Mardi Gras, Halloween, and Easter. It resembles Easter in that hampers containing food and drink are distributed to families and the needy; these baskets resemble Easter baskets.
How should one express their wishes during Purim?
For greater authenticity, one may extend well-wishes in Hebrew, specifically “Chag Purim Sameach,” rather than “Happy Purim.” “Chag Sameach” is an appropriate expression for all Jewish holidays.
What items am I expected to bring to a Purim celebration?
Bringing food as Purim presents is a widely observed custom. Although baskets containing cookies, candies, wine, snacks, and fruits are the most common offerings, gift bags are also permissible.
Esther Fast 2024 Activities
Prepare your mind beforehand.
Fasting may not be suitable for all individuals. Water and food abstinence requires more mental fortitude than one might initially believe. For the fast to be executed successfully, adequate preparation is required. Consume whole foods such as lentils, rice, dairy, and vegetables the night before. Mental preparation is also necessary for the fast.
Offer up your vows
Recite the “selichot,” which is located at the end of the prayer book, in the morning. During the Minchah, which is the afternoon prayer service, the Amidah should be recited. During the Minchah, some individuals who observe fasting also incorporate the Aneinu paragraph into the Shema Koleinu blessing.
Contribute to charity
It is said that in retaliation for the 10,000 silver talents granted to King Ahasuerus by Haman to eradicate the Jewish community, the Jews contributed half-shekels to the Holy Temple. During the fast of Esther, it is customary to donate three coins in half denominations to charity.
ESTHER FAST DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 23 | Saturday |
| 2025 | March 13 | Thursday |
| 2026 | March 2 | Monday |
