It’s ironic that the COVID-19 pandemic began to disrupt life in the United States, forcing lockdowns and major constraints on gathering — right around Purim time in 2020. Ironic because this joyous Jewish holiday emphasizes the importance of community and gathering together.
The four significant observances of this holiday, which begins at sundown on Wednesday, March 16, and concludes at nightfall on Thursday, March 17, are hearing the reading of the Megillah — the Book of Esther, exchanging gifts of food, donating charity to the poor and sitting down for a festive feast.
What unites these observances is that they are typically done with others — and there’s a reason for that.
In the story of Purim in Persia of the 4th century BCE, the viceroy Haman describes the Jews as “scattered and divided among the peoples” of the Persian empire. They were divided and so they could be conquered, Haman told King Ahasuerus. In response, the Jewish leader Mordechai called for Jews to gather to pray. After Queen Esther spoiled Haman’s plot, the Jews gathered again to defend themselves against their enemies.
Throughout history, our unity has kept us alive. We unite to celebrate, and we unite in the face of danger. As Ukraine came under attack, people from around the world lent whatever material, financial or even emotional support they could to Jews and others in harm’s way. This happened while we also prepared to celebrate Purim. We are best in all respects when we are united.
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