Fasting for a Dropped Torah

Does one have to fast if one sees a Sefer Torah fall?

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There exists a custom to fast if one sees a Torah fall to the floor, ch”v. Such an idea is not found in the Talmud and is likely an extension of the ruling that one who sees a Torah being burned must rip his clothing, a practice known as “Kriah,” as is done when in mourning. Some explain the reason for the fast is that one who sees a Torah fall is a sign from Heaven that one must do Teshuva, repent and correct one’s behavior. It is also taught the seeing a Torah fall is comparable to seeing Moshe Rabbeinu dropping the Ten Commandments, as he did when he saw the Golden Calf. There are other reasons given for this fast, as well.

There are different customs on how this fast is to be observed. Some say that it is a three day fast comprising of a Monday, Thursday, and Monday that is observed by the leaders of the community while all others need fast only one day. Le'halacha however, is that whoever fasts only does so for one day. The minhag is that one should fast at least until Chatsot. There is no truth to the rumor of a 40 day fast (during daylight hours) for witnessing a Torah fall to the ground.

In addition to the fast, the congregation should have a community meeting to discuss ways to strengthen their Torah observance and how they relate to the Torah. There is also a custom to have a Torah that fell examined by a scribe to ensure that it is kosher.

As mentioned, this custom is a fast and not an outright obligation. As such, there are many leniencies for those who would find it difficult to fast.

Moed Katan 26a; Magen Avraham 44:5; YD 340:37; Shulchan Aruch Harav, OC 44:2; Mishna Berura 40:3; Aruch Hashulchan , YD 282:8; Divrei Chaim, YD 59; Maharsham 2:264.