Ending the Fast of Esther when the Megillah Reading is Delayed
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Question
Hello, I work until 7:30 PM, and I have a minyan for the Megillah reading at 8:00 PM. The question is, am I required to fast until the Megillah reading, or can I break the fast earlier?
Answer
Hello,
Generally, one should not eat before fulfilling the mitzvah of hearing the Megillah, even after a fast, but it is permissible to drink water.
However, in your case, you can appoint someone to remind you to read the Megillah, and have a small taste before the Megillah. A taste is eating bread up to a volume of 100 cc or half a cup of a sweet drink or coffee, and fruit is also permissible.
Have an easy fast and a joyous Purim.
Generally, one should not eat before fulfilling the mitzvah of hearing the Megillah, even after a fast, but it is permissible to drink water.
However, in your case, you can appoint someone to remind you to read the Megillah, and have a small taste before the Megillah. A taste is eating bread up to a volume of 100 cc or half a cup of a sweet drink or coffee, and fruit is also permissible.
Have an easy fast and a joyous Purim.
Source
Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, Siman 692, סעיף ד); Mishnah Berurah (sk 14-16).
Comments
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