Posted on 03/21/24
Today, Thursday, is Ta’anit Esther, the fast day before Purim. Queen Esther asked all the Jews to fast because of Haman’s genocidal decree. In response, the nation of Israel united, fasted, and prayed together. How relevant this is to us today.
In Israel, we have been saying that this year is not only Ta’anit Esther. It is also Ta’anit Daniella (Daniella Gilboa, a hostage), Ta’anit Romi (Romi Leshem Gonen, another hostage), and a Ta’anit (fast day) dedicated to many other sisters of ours who are being held captive in Gaza.
I do not know what Esther had to endure under a foreign ruler but, in seeking solidarity, she asked the people to fast for her and for them. I do not know what our sisters under the brutal rulers of Gaza have had to endure, but we have an opportunity to join together for them now.
At 5:30 in the evening Israel time, towards the end of the fast this evening, there will be a grand worldwide recital of the Shema in unison.
May this and all of our prayers be accepted.