Resolute Purim

Rabbi Ammos Chorny

Although this year marks a leap year in the Hebrew calendar, the upcoming celebration of Purim invites us to delve beyond its perceived characterization as merely a children's festivity. Purim, with its customs and observances, carries a profound message that extends far beyond the youthful joy it often invokes. Rather than restricting its significance to our younger generations, it beckons us all to partake in its rituals, seeking the underlying wisdom woven into the fabric of the Megillah.

Our sages convey a striking prophecy — that amidst a messianic age where many holidays may dim in significance, Purim will stand resolute, as relevant then as it remains today. But what sets Purim apart from others? Most holidays are tethered to the Exodus from Egypt, marked by awe-inspiring acts transcending the natural realm — plagues, parted seas, divine encounters atop Mount Sinai and the miraculous sustenance of manna. Yet, what does Purim commemorate? It doesn't overtly recount miraculous feats; in fact, the Divine presence appears veiled, absent from explicit mention in the Megillah.

Talmudic interpretation hints at the observance of Purim within the Torah itself. "Where do we find Esther in the Torah?" they ask. Their answer lies within a verse from Deuteronomy: “Haster astir et panay,” meaning 'I will surely hide My face.' It's as if within the Book of Esther, God's countenance is deliberately concealed.

…when hope dwindles, we turn to Purim, a reminder of our enduring covenant with the Almighty…

The Megillah recounts a decree aimed at the utter annihilation of the Jewish people, yet before its conclusion, a dramatic reversal — “v’nahfoch hu” — turns the tables. On the anticipated day of their demise, fate takes a starkly different course, sparing the Jews from imminent disaster.

Our sages elucidate that Purim serves as a prelude to a future transformation, a time where Israel's standing in the world undergoes a complete shift. Those once adversaries will seek unity, recognizing the singular power of God. Purim's enduring relevance lies in its depiction of hope — through natural progression, the Torah's message will prevail, shaping and uplifting the world.

It's an affirmation transcending rationality's norms of reward and punishment, of purity and sanctity. When all seems lost, when hope dwindles, we turn to Purim, a reminder of our enduring covenant with the Almighty, a bond that enables us to transcend even the deepest sins and return to His benevolent embrace.

May this year's Purim celebration usher in a season of renewal for all, overturning complacency and dismantling barriers that separate us from the Divine.

Rabbi Ammos Chorny serves at Beth Tikvah.