Rabbi Howard Morrison

This evening, Jews around the world will begin to celebrate Purim. Harkening back to the 400's BCE in ancient Persia, Purim celebrates the reversal from near devastation and annihilation to liberation and celebration. It is noteworthy that when the Sages teach us that a futuristic time will no longer call for the observance of most of our holidays, Purim will continue to be celebrated. 

Purim symbolizes the eternal hope of our people even when situations seem so overwhelming. Throughout the Middle Ages, local Jewish communities would celebrate their own mini-Purim when they averted potential tragedies.

Over the last sixteen months, our people have been murdered, held under inhumane conditions, and traumatized by Jewish hatred around the world. With all this in mind, we need Purim even more so. Our heritage calls on us to celebrate Purim to the maximum. To do less means giving into the enemy's wishes.

I wish us all Simchat Purim, the joy and celebration associated with this timeless holiday.

Rabbi Howard Morrison