“Regular” Fast Days

Question

On the fast day of Tzom Gedalia, a friend of mine stayed up most of the night and ate before the beginning of the fast, then slept most of the day. Is this considered cheating since he did not suffer hunger pangs during the day?

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Answers

  1. There is no obligation, per se, to inflict oneself on the fast days other than Tisha b’Av and Yom Kippur. The fact that we are not eating or drinking is considered to be enough. Therefore, if your friend prayed the Morning Service and the Afternoon Service on time then he has fulfilled his obligation to fast.

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