Questions About Esther
Q. Did Esther fast for a full three days and nights? Or did she eat before the third day was over at the banquet? Thanks!
A. According to the ibn Ezra, the fast for everyone (not just Esther) was actually only two days and two nights, the intention of Esther's request being "until the third day." According to that interpretation, Esther could have observed the fast and still eaten at the banquet she made on the third day.
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Q. Why did Mordecai insist that Esther act immediately and try to have an audience unannounced with the King, thereby taking a risk of endangerment, instead of waiting to be summoned? Thanks!
A. The threat of extinction was a pretty big deal that needed addressing and Esther hadn't been summoned in a long time. I could see not wanting to delay addressing it on the outside chance that Esther might be summoned.
Additionally, even if she were summoned, Ahasuerus would have his own reasons for summoning her and he'd want to address his agenda, not hers. Generally speaking, the one who calls the meeting has the upper hand in controlling the narrative.
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Q. I am new to Judaism and I'm interested in knowing the Fast of Esther very well. Please, my question is this: I'm not so strong and fasting is one of the things, unfortunately, I'm not so good at. Please, am I permitted to drink water during the three days fasting?
A. Thanks for your question, though you're working under a big misconception. In the book of Esther, the people fasted for three days. We fast in commemoration of Esther's fast, but we only do so for one day – and it's not even a full day! The fast of Esther only lasts from sunrise until nightfall.
Generally speaking, it's possible to get a dispensation for various aspects of a fast based on one's medical needs, and the fast of Esther is a relatively lenient fast. The appropriate course of action would be to approach a rabbi prior to an upcoming fast with the details (I need to take medication, I get migraines, I have an eating disorder, etc.). The rabbi will then advise you as how to proceed based on your individual circumstances.
Rabbi Jack's book Ask Rabbi Jack is available from Kodesh Press and on Amazon.com.