* Translated by Janine Muller Sherr
1) Taanit Esther (the Fast of Esther) begins at dawn today and ends after nightfall. Queen Esther teaches us how to respond to a crisis as she confronts the decree to annihilate our people. She bravely approaches the king to annul the decree, but at the same time, she instructs Mordechai: “Go, assemble all the Jews who live in Shushan and fast on my behalf.” She recognizes that she can’t accomplish her mission on her own and asks all the Jews to fast, pray, repent, and unite with faith and fortitude.
2) It’s important to note that this is not a fast mourning a tragic event, such as the destruction of the Temple on Tisha B’Av, but a day that ends in triumph. Therefore, this fast is commemorated by praying and crying out to God for salvation. Last year, many named this day “The Fast of Romi” or the “Fast of Agam” for the female hostages being held in Gaza. May all of our prayers be answered soon.
3) It is customary to give tzedakah (charity) today in commemoration of the “half-shekel” that was donated by the Jewish people, at this time of year, for the upkeep of the Temple. You may use online websites to donate to the organization of your choice.
4) In the synagogue, we recite Selichot and “Avinu Malkeinu.” It is also our custom to recite chapter 22 of Tehillim (the Book of Psalms) that is identified with the supplication of Queen Esther.(It begins with the words: “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”)
5) Our Sages explains that after going through a day of fasting and soul-searching, our joy is deeper and more meaningful. At nightfall, we go to synagogue to listen to Megillat Esther read from a scroll and then….Purim begins!
