Festivals are an integral element of Jewish tradition. Can you distinguish between holidays included in the Torah and those that were introduced by the sages at a later time?
Interestingly enough, the popularity of a holiday is not an indicator at all. Chanukah is an all-time favorite, and it was established over 1,000 years after Sinai. Shavuot is virtually unknown and it is part of the major three biblical holidays.
Purim is also a fairly new holiday in Judaism. During the Babylonian exile following the destruction of the first Holy Temple, the Jews finally started to grow accustomed to their new reality. They were accepted by the broader society and enjoyed much prestige in the royal Persian court. Kosher food was prepared at the royal banquet in their honor and a Jewish woman was the queen of the world. Their beloved leader, Mordechai, was a trusted aide and advisor to the king himself.
The times were good and the people relaxed in their anticipation for a return to the Holy Land and a new Holy Temple.
Then came Haman, the diabolical Amalekite with the wherewithal to take care of the Jewish Problem. He deceitfully manipulated the mind of the foolish king Achashveirosh (who was no Jew lover himself) to issue a genocidal decree against the Jews.
The Jewish response was swift and decisive. Under the influence of Mordechai they joined together in repentance and prayer, re-accepting upon themselves an uncompromising commitment to a life of Torah and Mitzvos. The outcome was an epic reversal and turnover of political fortunes: Haman was executed and we are here today to celebrate the miracle.
We celebrate by toasting Lechaim on wine. Wine represents the essence of the message of Purim. All fruits are of superior quality than the juice extracted from them. This is reflected in their prices and in the respective blessings recited before eating fruits or drinking juice. The juice of grapes is an exception. Wine produced from grapes is far more expensive and the unique "Hagafen" blessing is recited upon it. It is the beverage with which we sanctify Shabbat, Yom Tov and every celebratory Jewish milestone.
Just as when the grape is crushed it releases superior quality, so too the Jewish nation. Whether we are pressured by mortal enemies or internal struggles, we manage to pull through on a greater spiritual plane than before.
I invite you to join us in celebrating Purim. On Motzei Shabbat (Saturday Night) at 7:30pm we will read the Megillah, followed by Havdalah and a Falafel Bar. The celebration will include a masquerade, balloon art, face painting and a Purim craft. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Megillah readings on Sunday will be at 9:00am and 4:30pm. Purim in the Shtetl Dinner is open to all at 5:00pm! Enjoy a delicious traditional menu and celebrate away. Kindly let us know if you will be joining. Couvert is $15. Kindly consider being a cosponsor of all the Purim events for $200.
On Sunday at 2:30pm the children and seniors of the community will celebrate with a Hamentash Bake Off at the Monte Vista.
Throughout the day on Sunday be sure to give Mishloach Manot - gifts of food to a friend. At least two ready madefoods are necessary for the Mitzvah. Also, give Matanot Le’evyonim – gifts to the poor. We need to give money to two poor Jewish families. If you are unsure of whom to gift the money, Chabad has a special fund to help the needy and we will distribute the money on your behalf.
Best wishes for a joyous Purim!