Fast of Esther: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Fast of Esther (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Fast of Esther is celebrated on March 6th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Fast of Esther, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you should know about Fast of Esther.

📅 What day is Fast of Esther 2024?

In 2024, Fast of Esther is on Monday, March 6th. It is the 1st Monday in March; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the cool details and facts about March 6, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The Fast of Esther is a special day observed before the Purim feast, which will be on March 6 this year. We are here to guide you on how to make the most out of this day. It’s incredible to think that “The Book of Esther” has been around for nearly two millennia. This fast is held in remembrance of the events detailed in that book. The Fast of Esther is a relatively short fast that starts at sunrise and ends at nightfall. During this time, not only are you restricted from eating or drinking, but you are also encouraged to forgo other comforts as well.

📜 Fast of Esther History

Esther took charge and made a plan to stop Haman’s plot. She invited him to a feast, where he accepted and ended up collapsing on Esther’s couch, begging for forgiveness. However, Queen Esther had already informed the King that Haman intended to kill her. When the King entered the feast and saw Haman on the couch, he misunderstood the situation as a sexual advance and became even more furious. As a result, Haman was executed by hanging.

According to some scholars, the Fast of Esther is observed because the Jews who fought against their enemies fasted to seek divine favor. King Ahasuerus had ordered the killing of the Jews, and he couldn’t revoke that decree. However, he allowed the Jews to defend themselves and kill anyone who tried to harm them. Before going into battle and killing about 75,000 men, it is believed that the Jews fasted.

For generations, Jews have been observing the Fast of Esther on the day before the Purim feast. Some people believe that the fast is a way to compensate for the indulgence in eating and partying during Purim.

✅ Fast of Esther Facts

🔖 It was written by Mordecai
It is believed that either Esther’s cousin Mordecai or Ezra may have written “The Book of Esther.”

🔖 It takes place in Susa
According to historical accounts, the events described in “The Book of Esther” are said to have occurred in the ancient city of Susa, which is present-day Sush in Iran.

🔖 One of the two books on women
Two books named after women are “The Book of Esther” and “The Book of Ruth.”

👍 Why Is Fast of Esther Important

Fasting causes us to appreciate the abundance of life. It makes us appreciate the value of the food we consume and the comfort we have in our lives. It teaches us about sacrifice, dedication, and thankfulness. It also helps to enhance the intellect.

This day allows us to express our religious and spiritual sides. During the Fast of Esther, one might leave aside his tension, anxiety, and life’s complexity and contemplate. It allows us to reflect, pray, and be one with God.

Some of the benefits of fasting include a lower resting heart rate, lower blood pressure, lower levels of bad cholesterol, and a lower level of insulin. It also encourages the removal of damaged cells and the formation of new, healthy ones.

🙂 How To Observe Fast of Esther

⚡ Give to charity

⚡ Prepare yourself mentally
Not everyone is able to fast, as it requires a strong mental determination to abstain from food and water. To successfully complete a fast, it is important to plan ahead by consuming nutritious meals the night before, including whole foods like grains, lentils, dairy, and vegetables. Additionally, it is crucial to mentally prepare yourself for the challenges of fasting.

⚡ Recite your prayers
It is reported that the Jews paid half-shekels to the Holy Temple to compensate for Haman’s gift of 10,000 silver talents to King Ahasuerus in order to eliminate the Jewish people. During the fast of Esther, it is customary to donate three coins in half value to charity.

📅 When is Fast of Esther?

View all 🔗 March holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Christian holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Fast of Esther. So be sure to check back soon.