Jerusalem – Two Israeli rabbis are following in the footsteps of Mordechai Hatzadik, calling for a three day fast prior to Purim in the hopes of bringing about positive change in both the security situation and the social disparities in Israel.
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According to reports on YNet News, natural therapist and kabbalistic guru Rabbi Yuval Asherov and Rabbi Shalom Arush of Breslov, are expecting tens of thousands of Jews worldwide to take part in the initiative, by abstaining from food and drink and reflecting upon their actions as well as their responsibilities to others.
“When extreme situations arise, they require an extreme reaction,” explained the fast’s leadership. “We must make a general break in routine to wake up, stop, cure the evil of separatism, and unite. It was known long ago that in times of trouble, when Israel unites, the troubles disappear.”
Acknowledging that some may find a three day fast too difficult to complete, the pair have suggested that people could also participate by fasting for half days, by eating after nightfall or, at the very least, by dedicating the three days to soul searching, personal improvement and the performance of good deeds.
Bopkes
Very honorable men. A model for us all.
It’s very hard to implement such an undertaking, unless people feel their life is in danger,
Very honorable, but what is the position of the mainstream gedolim on this?
Perhaps it would’ve been better for them to coordinate this with the traditionally accepted gedolei hador.
The 3 day fast was set by Esther, not by Mordechai. Fasting 3 days, if eating each night is one thing, but no eating and drinking for 3 days and nights will extremely interfere with people’s ability to properly function, learn, and interact with their families.
WE have a tradition called ” Niskatnu Hadoros”…..the generations have dwindeled and gone down. Typically most think this refers to our spiritual level. But II have heard from many authorities that it also refers to physical stamina and strength. What was possible for the Yidden thousands of years ago may not be possible nowadays . We are weaker and more frail. The fact that we live longer is due to the advancement in the medical fields and better nourishment.