11th Tamuz
1. Who Should Fast
- Frequent fasting is appropriate only for those who are healthy and strong, much like in earlier generations.
- Those whose health may be harmed by numerous fasts should avoid them, even for severe sins.
2. Limitations on Fasting
- Even in past generations, only the robust would undertake many fasts; others who could not endure it were discouraged from doing so.
- Fasting beyond one’s capacity is considered sinful, even if done for repentance.
3. Special Considerations for Torah Scholars
- Torah scholars are especially discouraged from excessive fasting, as it may weaken them and diminish their ability to study Torah.
4. Alternative to Fasting: Charity
- The main recommendation for those unable to fast is to give charity in place of fasting, as indicated by the verse: “And your sins will be redeemed with charity.”
- For every day of atonement fasting, one should give the equivalent of 18 Polish coins, or more for the wealthy, according to their means.