There is a never-ending debate in our Jewish literature: is kavannah (intention) necessary or can I just go through the motions of a religious/spiritual life? Of course, this debate is relevant for tomorrow’s fast day known as Ta’anit Esther (Fast of Esther), which falls one day before the rambunctiousness that is Purim. An illustrious 20th Century legal work known as the Mishnah Berurah teaches the following about Ta’anit Esther: 

“The people gathered on the 13th of Adar in the days of Mordechai and Esther to fight and take a stand for their lives, and they needed to request compassion from God and plead for God to help them… Thus, there is a practice for every Jew to fast on the 13th of Adar (the day before Purim). We call this day the “Fast of Esther” to remember that God sees and hears every person at the time of their distress when they fast and return to God with all their heart. This is just like what happened in the days of Mordechai and Esther” (Mishnah Berurah 686:2). 

This fast remains on the Jewish calendar the day before Purim not just as a remembrance of the uncertainty back in the day, but also as a reminder that many of us still face moments of uncertainty and distress every day. Mordechai and Esther fasted as they awaited their fate against Haman, and they cried out to God with all their hearts. 

Ten years ago, one of my teachers in Jerusalem taught that it is meaningless to fast on this day unless you also dedicate time for study and reflection. To simply go through the rote motions of a fast without any introspection would be antithetical to the day’s purpose. After all, the Mishnah Berurah states, “God sees and hears every person at the time of their distress when they fast and return to God with all their heart.” 

Living a religious/spiritual life requires us to give all our hearts. Some of us will fast today in different forms, and others will not; everybody will do what is needed for them mentally and physically. But each of us has an opportunity to set aside time for reflection, learning, and contemplation today. Amidst the stressors that may be present in our lives, surely a day of reflection isn’t such a bad thing. May this Ta’anit Esther be one of deep reflection and learning for you and your community. 

How can you add a bit more reflection into your day? 

How can you encourage others in your community to slow down and reflect ahead of Purim?