Ta’anit Esther (the Fast of Esther) precedes Purim, usually on the 13th of Adar. This year (2012), the Fast of Esther takes place on Wednesday, March 7th, the 13th of Adar.

The Megillah (4:16), relates how Queen Esther agrees to approach King Achashverosh uninvited on behalf of the Jewish people. She asks the Jewish People to fast for three days beforehand. Queen Esther, Mordechai, and the Jewish people, fast and pray, asking Hashem to be merciful and save them from Haman and the King’s decree.

The 13th of Adar is also the anniversary of the day the fighting against the anti-semitic forces occurred; Purim is the day the victorious Jews rested and celebrated. The 13th of Adar was then established as an annual fast day for every generation, known as "The Fast of Esther." (Esther 9:31).

The Fast of Esther gives us a different perspective on fasting. Sure, it commemorates a terrible day in Jewish history, but it is not a sad day in of itself. In fact, it is a day that leads up to the happiest holiday of the year! In this case, the fast adds to the joy of Purim and makes us even more aware of Hashem’s hand in the destruction of Haman.

All the general regulations and customs associated with public fast days are observed, including the recitation of special selichot on the particular theme of the day.

- Ta’anit Esther only starts from the break of dawn and ends at nightfall. One may eat breakfast if one arises before sunrise for the specific purpose of doing so. (Consult a reliable Jewish calendar for the times in your area.)

- It is customary to extend the fast until after the Megillah is read. (Except of course, in walled cities, where the Megillah is read on the night of the 15th.)

- One who is ill need not fast at all. Pregnant and nursing mothers can observe the fast with lenience. One should consult with a Rabbi whether they are permitted to fast.

- Children below the age of bar or bat mitzva - 13 for boys and 12 for girls, do not fast. (In some communities, it is customary for children to begin fasting a short time before they become bar/bat mitzva.)

- Those permitted to eat should still refrain from eating meat, luxurious food and drink.

- Special additions to the prayers, (Selichot and Aneinu), and Torah readings (the Passages of Vayechal - Shmot 32: 11-14 and 34: 1-10), are added during the day.