Halachot and Customs
Must a nursing mother fast on the Seventeenth of Tammuz?
Question
My son is one year and three months old. I am partially nursing, twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. Aside from that, I do not really feel well on fast days and it is hard for me to function as usual (I do not get out of bed for most of the fast). My question is whether I need to fast normally tomorrow.
Thank you.
Answer
A good week to you,
You are not required to fast. In any case, it is proper not to indulge in eating and drinking beyond what is necessary.
Sources: See Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 554:5), Responsa Yechaveh Daat, volume 1 (siman 35), and Chazon Ovadiah, Four Fast Days (page 62).
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
