1. All are obligated in the reading of the Megillah, both men and women. The reason why women are obligated in this mitzvah – despite the fact that it is a time-bound mitzvah from which women are usually exempt – is that they too were included in the miracle, since the decree to kill all Jews was aimed at them as well. Children who have reached the age ofchinuch-educationare also trained to listen to the Megillah. (Shulchan AruchandMishnah Berurah 689).
2. The Megillah is read at night and again during the day. The time for the night reading is from when the stars appear until dawn. The time for the morning reading is from sunrise until sunset. After the fact, if it was read after dawn, the person has discharged his obligation. The reason it is read twice is to memorialize the miracle, to remember that the Jews had cried out and prayed night and day (ibid.).
