During the month of Adar, we celebrate the holiday of Purim. We read Megilas Esther, which tells the Purim story, and dressed up in our Purim costumes. The sages teach us to increase our happiness during the month of Adar. The problem we are left with is how? In this episode of The Torah Podcast, we unearth the source of joy and strategize how to attain this wonderful middah.
Purim Dvar Torah: Lasting Lessons from Adar
Uncover the rich history of Purim, Adar, and their long-lasting teachings in this insightful Dvar Torah. Learn how to explore new depths of our tradition through the month of Adar.
Purim and Adar provide a unique opportunity to understand our tradition better. Through this Dvar Torah, explore the history behind Purim and discover new insights into Jewish teachings within the month of Adar.
What is Purim?
Purim is a Jewish holiday commemorating the Jewish people's saving from Haman's plot to commit genocide against them in the 4th century BCE Persia. According to the Book of Esther, Adar was a time for fasting, prayer, and celebration as Queen Esther implored King Ahasuerus to spare her people from destruction. This holiday has been celebrated ever since and is still marked today throughout the world.
Adar: The Month of Rejoicing.
Adar is the twelfth month in the Jewish calendar, often called the month of joy and celebration. The Talmud says that when Adar begins, we increase our happiness. This joyous month is marked by many unique customs and rituals in recognition of its significance in Jewish history. Some Jews will give charity; others will make a special effort to add extra mitzvahs and say tehillim (psalms), while others will participate in large festivities such as Purim spiels or carnivals. These actions honor Adar's empowering message of joy amidst the hardship that Queen Esther embodies.
Revealing the Inner Teachings of Purim.
The more profound teachings of Purim and the entire month of Adar can be uncovered through studying our texts with increased enthusiasm and sensitivity. By exploring the Talmud, Midrash, and other commentaries, we can discover unexpected ideas and insights regarding the historical context of Queen Esther's incredible story and her actions in liberating the Jews from Haman's evil plot. Additionally, when we consider the various customs people have been doing since ancient times to commemorate this momentous time in Jewish history, we can uncover lasting lessons that will enhance our spiritual lives today.
The Torah Podcast is a weekly online Torah class about the week's Parsha. A focused and thought-provoking Dvar Torah about this week's Torah portion: stop asking, "what is this week's Parsha" and start telling your friends Divrei Torah on this week's Parsha. NEW! Watch our Torah WhatsApp status! WhatsApp the word "greatness" to (757)-679-4497 to watch the status.
Check out our other Torah Podcasts and content!
Support the show