RABBI LETTER

PURIM AND PASSOVER
TWO DIFFERENT APPROACHES TO PERSECUTION

Purim (February 28 this year) is a loud and raucous celebration of the Jewish
triumph over anti-Semitism and persecution.  We tell the story of our
deliverance with lots of noisy interruptions.  Just a month later, we hold a
very different type of celebration on Passover, telling the story of our
deliverance at the seder in a fairly serious manner.

Many of us have heard that most Jewish holidays can be summarized with the
phrases “they tried to kill us.  We won.  Let’s eat!”
On Purim, we mock those who have historically tried to kill us by dressing up
in costumes and making lots of noise every time their name is mentioned.  
This year, Cantor Marcy will give us a treat that may be a first in the
history of our congregation (it certainly is a first since 1985):  the
traditional chanting from the Megillah of the names of all of the wicked
Haman’s sons.

However, our response on Passover reflects more of the norm in our history,
stressing the need to learn from the past so as to make for a better future.

There is a great deal to be said for both approaches, however the main  point
is the need to actually participate in both rituals.  Even if you choose to
wear ear-plugs on Purim, the Purim service is tremendously fun.  It tells us
something of our past, while acknowledging the reality of the present and
watching the involvement of our future.

The importance of going through a proper seder and relating the past to the
present and future cannot be overstated.  Shortchanging the seder just to get
to the incredible meal is like skipping the service on a Bar/Bat Mitzvah day
just to get to the party.  When it is done, the event loses most of its
value.

This year, our Membership Committee is sponsoring a Passover workshop at the
Oneg Shabbat which follows our Friday night, March 12 service.  We will
answer questions about how to make Passover more meaningful in your home and,
of course, we will exchange winning recipes (and have samples as well).

Too many people in our world just settle for “getting by.”  What has made the
Jewish people stand out historically is our commitment to excellence.  
Carrying on this commitment to excellence by remembering the message of Purim
and Passover strengthens us as individuals and as a community.

On behalf of Ruthie, our kids and our cats, we wish happy and meaningful
celebrations of these wonderful holidays to you and your loved ones.

Rabbi Dan Pernick