Q&A: The Basis of Fasting in the Outlook of the Sages
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
The Basis of Fasting in the Outlook of the Sages
Question
In your view, if the Sages had known the natural sciences of our time, would they still have instituted fasts “for every trouble that comes upon the community,” such as locusts, collapse, illnesses, and so on?
On the other hand, it really does seem “cruel” to go on with the normal routine when troubles descend upon us.
Is there an appropriate “religious” response?
Answer
I do not know what it was like in their time, but nowadays I assume there would be no point in instituting such a decree. I do not know what is cruel about recognizing reality.