Q. As the ninth of AV is a nidcheh this year is a person who has an illness and is required to take many pills a couple times a day required to fast?
A. Shulchan Aruch (O.C. 554:6) rules that an ailing person need not fast on Tisha B'av, as the sages did not decree fasting in sickness. Yet, the Remoh (ibid.) writes that it is customary to fast when not in great pain or any danger. Mishna Berura (ibid.11) adds that if the sick is weak or frail, he should be fed. Further (ibid. 14) quoting Eliahu Rabah advices that if possible, one should fast some hours. There are different opinions if eating or drinking small amounts (less than the shiur) is necessary on Tisha B'av. Some Poiskim advice to do so (Maharam Shick O.C. 289, quoting the Chasam Sofer, Biur Halacha ibid., Marcheshes 1:14, et. al.). Some maintain that it is not necessary, but one should eat only the required (Chida, in Machzik Brocho 1, Aruch Hashulchon ibid. 20, Shai Lemoreh O.C. 4 et. al.). Nitey Gavriel (Ben Hametzorim 2:66:14) recommends that when in doubt if the ailment qualifies or not, one should eat doing shiurim.
Poiskim agree that it is permitted to take pills when necessary, without any liquid. (ibid. 63:2), or with a bitter tasting fluid if allowed by physician. (Piskey Teshuvos 554:8, Kaf Hachaim ibid. 34).
One indeed can be more lenient when, as in this year, Tisha B'av is a nidche.
These are only general guidelines, as each case differs, it is always advisable to consult a qualified Rabbi who knows the condition of the patient and can further contact his physician, if needed.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit"a
Important Numbers
