Question:
Dear Rabbi,
I am the second gestation of mom. The first child was a still birth born deceased.
Am I obligated to do the first born fast? I assume it is Friday next week.
I have not fasted it before because something said I was exempt but I am not sure.
Thank you.
Answer:
Hello,
The custom is that a boy that was born after a stillborn does fast, being that the smiting of the firstborn also applied to such a son.
As a side point this year the fast is on Thursday, being the erev Pesach is on Shabbos. It is also important to know that if you go to shul for Shacharis that day, there will most probably be a siyum there, and then all the firstborns may eat. Additionally, a person who isn’t well does not have to fast.
Best wishes
Sources:
Orach Chaim 470-2, Mishna Berura ibid 2.
