Fast of Esther
The Fast of Esther (תַּעֲנִית אֶסְתֵּר – Ta’anit Ester) on the 13th of Adar, is a Jewish fast from dawn until dusk, commemorating the three-day fast observed by the Jewish people in the story of Purim, found in the book of Esther.
Haman, the royal adviser to King Ahasuerus, planned to kill all the Jews in the Persian empire, but his plans were foiled by Mordecai the Jew and his niece Hadassah, more widely known as Queen Esther. Upon the discovery of Haman’s plans, Esther called the Jews to fast with her for three days while she prepared to risk her life by approaching the king without first being summoned, a crime punishable by death. But she found favor in the eyes of the king and her people avoided annihilation. Their day of deliverance became a day of feasting and rejoicing – the 14th day of Adar – Purim.
A Prophetic Pattern
Is the current world climate so much different from the time of Esther? We see a scenario repeating itself throughout history with Haman, Hitler, the modern day Iranian regime, ISIS, Al Qaeda, Boko Haram, Hezbollah, Hamas, and the list goes on. We believe that the parallels between the time of Esther 2,500 years ago and today are more than mere coincidence: a federation of enemies in place of an empire.
For if their (Israel’s) being cast away is reconciling of the world, what will their acceptance be, but life from the dead? – Romans 11:15
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Evil, bloodthirsty men gaining political influence through lies and deception.
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The intent to kill each and every Jew (and by inference, all Christians who support Israel).
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Iran (Persia) playing a key role in the plan to annihilate the Jews.
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The worldwide Church enjoying a royal, bridal-type intimacy and grace with the King as Esther did.
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The Church challenged to recognize her own Jewish roots as Esther was.
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The Church interceding and fasting for the salvation of the Jewish people as Esther did.
If this pattern continues, we will see:
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At the very last moment, just before seemingly total disaster, a sudden and supernatural turn around.
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The people of God will fight with authority and gain the victory.
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The kingdom will be transferred into the hands of godly people, resulting in joy for all nations.
It has happened before, and it will happen again.
For Such a Time as This
Every year during The Fast of Esther we hold a live streamed event of worship, fasting and prayer. Several watches each cover different focuses and prayer points. Many come from all over Israel as well as visitors from the nations, joining together in unity, as the bride coming before the King to make intercession for His people, reminiscent of Esther in the days of the Persian Empire.