Breaking the Fast Before the Megillah Reading in Jerusalem
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Question
Is it permissible for a woman to break the fast before the Megillah reading in Jerusalem?
Answer
Greetings and a joyous Purim
I am quoting what our teacher, the Gaon, Rabbi Avraham Fried, shlita, wrote:
It is forbidden to eat before the Megillah reading [both at night and during the day], and even tasting is forbidden. In cases of great need, such as someone who is slightly ill or for whom fasting is difficult, tasting is permitted.
The definition of 'tasting' is - eating bread and pastries up to the size of an egg, and fruits, vegetables, and snacks that are not grain-based, even in large quantities. Drinking non-alcoholic beverages even in large quantities is considered tasting, and drinking water is permitted even without great need, but it is forbidden to drink wine or other alcoholic beverages more than the size of an egg.
A sick person for whom tasting is not sufficient should appoint a guard to remind them to read the Megillah, and they may eat.
These laws apply to both men and women . However, it should be noted that women often have a great need [such as hearing it late, taking care of children, etc.], and in cases of need, they are permitted to taste but not eat.
Source
Azmera Leshimcha 281
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 692, סעיף 4
It is forbidden to eat before hearing the Megillah reading, even if fasting is difficult for him.
Mishna Berura, Siman 692, סעיף קטן 14
See in MA, where he concludes that only eating is forbidden, but tasting in general is permitted, etc. And even tasting should not be lenient except in cases of great need, that is, slightly ill or one who is fasting and fasting is difficult for him, and the measure of tasting is an egg's worth of bread or drinks in the size of an egg.