March 12, 2006

Fast of Esther From Wikipedia

The Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Ester, Hebrew תענית אסתר) is a minor Jewish fast from dawn until dusk on Purim eve, commemorating the three day fast observed by the Jewish people in the story of Purim. This fast was accepted by the Jews for all future generations as it is stated: And as they accepted upon themselves and upon their children, the matters of their fastings and their cry (Book of Esther 9).

The Fast is observed on the 13th day of the Hebrew month of Adar. If the Fast of Esther falls on Shabbat, the fast is observed on the preceding Thursday.

Since the Fast of Esther is not one of the four public fasts ordained by the Prophets, the laws are more lenient; pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those who are weak are not required to observe it.

The Gregorian date for the Fast of Esther in 2006 is March 13. Purim begins at sunset.

I recently watched a movie on the History Cable channel that featured the story of Queen Esther. It was a portrait of courage and wisdom in a time of great trials and suffering. Esther put the needs of others before her own life. There is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends. She was willing to die in order to save others. Her courage is an inspiration. I believe I can live more fully if I can love that completely. I believe that I must give my life to God with a full and open, giving heart ready to sacrifice or give in ways that only the future will reveal. I pray that my heart stays open and willing to follow God's will and loving way in all that I do.