This Saturday Night-Sunday is the holiday of Purim. On Purim, there are 4 Mitzvot we can do: Hear the reading of the Megillah, eat a festive meal, deliver a food package of two items to a friend (Mishloach Manot), and give charity to two people. This holiday, perhaps more than any other, is connected to joy and celebration. We know that laughter comes from a surprise, an unexpected occurrence (just watch any VINE, prank video or YouTube comedy). Perhaps this is the source of our immense joy on Purim, since the Jewish people surprised everyone by their being saved and victorious in such dire circumstances{See the story here}.
But what is the primary theme of Purim?
The Megillah of Esther which tells the Purim story, is the only book of Tanakh that doesn't mention G-d's name. He's "hidden" throughout, directing the events in the Jewish people's favor. This is why we traditionally eat the hamantaschen cookie which is sweet on the inside, to signify that events in our lives - while they may seem bitter at times - have a sweet inner purpose and meaning. Our job is to recognize the G-d that is hidden behind Life's events. A story which illustrates this:
Once, there was a great Rabbi who was sitting in his home learning. Suddenly, his young son burst into the room sobbing loudly. His father asked what had happened. "I was playing hide & go seek with my friends, and I was chosen to hide. I hid & hid & hid... and no one came to look for me!" The boy's father comforted him, then said: "G-d does the same thing. He hides and no one searches..."
Unlike the human game where we find a very secluded hiding place, God hides everywhere. Every moment of our lives in every location, we’re able to uncover His presence if we venture to do so. Every bit of learning, mitzvot and good deeds reveals Him more. Reb Mendel of Kotzk once asked his students, “where is God?” Startled, the students responded: “He’s everywhere!” Reb Mendel smiled, and replied, “No. God is wherever you let Him in.” We have to make a conscious effort to seek G-d out, making room for His presence in our daily lives.
Through our celebrating G-d's providence and saving of our people in the times of Purim, may G-d finally reveal Himself to all of us with the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days!
Happy Purim!
-Rabbi Daniel
