The Bais Yisroel the famous Rebbe of Ger, asks, why does the Megilla use these adjectives to describe the observances? Why doesn't the Megilla just say simply, “The Jews had Torah, Holidays, Circumcision and Tefillin? He answers as follows. After the Jews were saved miraculously from Haman's decree and committed themselves to G-d and His Torah, their level of appreciation of G-d, Torah and observances was uplifted tremendously. Torah, Yom Tov, Bris and Tefillin, were no longer things that they reluctantly had to do. The Megilla describes the renewed attitude and approach to their observances.

Torah became light, it illuminated their lives. Yom Tov – Holidays was no longer a shlep and burden, it was approached with Simcha - gladness! A Bris was done with the spirit of Joy. Donning Tefillin was no longer a chore; it was performed eagerly because they felt the splendor of it.

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Our joy and positive approach in the performance of a Mitzvah, transforms that which one could view as a chore into something very enjoyable, rewarding and pleasurable.

It’s There, We Just Have To Look For It

The Megilla of Esther is the only book of our Scriptures in which there is no outright mention of G-d’s name. One of the reasons offered for this omission is that throughout the events of Purim, G-d’s Presence was not openly visible. Only when looking back at the story is the Divine intervention clear and the Hand of G-d ever present. The events of Purim testify that G-d lovingly cares and watches over us, and spares us from destruction - in a rather seemingly hidden and veiled manner. It is up to each and every one of us to seek out and recognize the Divine Hand in all happenings - It’s always there!

 

Wishing you a most joyous Purim!

Rabbi Dovid and Malki Saks and Family