עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is It Permissible to Wake Up During the Night to Eat Before the Fast?
Question
Honorable Rabbi, is it permitted for boys/girls to awaken before the fast begins and actually eat before Shacharit prayer? Thank you very much.
Answer
Greetings, It is permitted to awaken before the fast begins (the fast begins at dawn) in order to eat; however, one must make a condition before going to sleep that he intends to wake up to eat and drink. According to the Ashkenazic custom, one does not need to make a condition if he only intends to drink. Sources: See Shulchan Aruch and Rama, Orach Chayim (Siman 568, Se'if 1), Mishnah Berurah (ibid), and Chazon Ovadia Arba Ta'aniyot (page 9). Blessings, Hillel Meirs
