Community Rabbi Corner, Feb. 26, 2021

Rabbi Rachel Marder
Congregation Beth El
South Orange, NJ
Parashat Tetzaveh/Purim

The theology of Purim is honest and resonates with many of us. We don't see or hear from God. Salvation and self-defense fall to flawed human beings who find the courage to speak out and step up, though they are unsure what impact their actions will have. There is a sense that the Jewish redemption at the end of the story is temporary until the next existential crisis occurs. When Mordechai implores Esther to use her status as queen to try to save the Jewish people and her own soul, he summarizes Purim theology. "Who knows, perhaps you have attained to royal position for just such a crisis" (Esther 4:14). Mi yodea - who knows.

Many read God into the Purim story as pulling the strings of salvation behind the scenes. Some see that in our world as well. But we often sit in the "who knows" camp: Who knows if and how the Holy One is watching over us? How does God act in the world? Who knows how our crises will turn out? What we do know is what we are capable of. Esther, and we along with her, realize each year that we can use our voices and our hands to create redemption. God acts through us when we show care and kindness. How do we build a redeemed world? On Purim we give to anyone who opens their hand; we do not scrutinize them (Mishneh Torah, Laws of Megillah and Hanukkah 2:16). We give mishloach manot to friends. We do not distinguish between strangers and loved ones. We share what we have so all can participate in the miracle. No person or voice is excluded in a perfected world. May we always act with courage and generosity, believing in our power to bring about redemption. Chag Purim Sameach.
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