Adar is a month for true delight. The month of Adar invites us to laugh, turn things topsy turvy, and embrace the unknown. Adar begins on February 28 and ends on March 29, 2025. The month is associated with the astrological sign of Pisces.
Purim occurs in the month of Adar, the holiday that is associated with the phrase, Nahafokhh hu, meaning “the world flipped upside down” (Esther 9:1). Purim reminds us not to take things for granted. As Jews, we are continually reminded that are home may not be secure or permanent. However, our neighbors may not be as aware of this as we are. I do not mean we are in imminent danger. But given Jewish history through the millennia, our safe spot here may alter in coming generations. Israel may change.
I believe we need to be reminded that Jews and every single person no matter their nationality, gender, or age lives under an existential threat. So take a deep breath. I mean this in an abstract sense; no need to hire a moving van yet. One needs to realize that our places in the world can shift. Therefore, one must be aware of one’s surroundings, relationships, and emotions. On a day to day basis, this idea is translated as: no matter what we expect, we might end up with the opposite result. I am sure all of you have experienced this phenomenon in myriad ways. Since January 20, 2025, the America as we have come to know could/can change in literally a few minutes. In some respects, our country has already shifted closer to an autocracy.
We are in a state of shock and fear. If you support the actions of the Trump regime, I guess this particular blog may not be for you. I apologize. But, actually, MAGA supporters are faced with the same fears of the unknown. We are in this moment together.
Relinquishing our need to control, analyze, plan, and anticipate is a lifelong goal. Some organization and planning, including finances, work, residence, healthcare, spiritual life, are essential for a balanced and fulfilling life. I know that I would benefit from relaxing more in the “arms of mystery and embrace the joy” of the unknown. This can be the joy of Adar and Purim, especially this year. Moment by moment, it can be near impossible to find joy. I do not offer bromides for misfortune.
Purim-- in the month of Adar-- contains miracles. According to Rabbi Levi Yitzchok, there are two types of miracles: those that defy nature like the splitting of the Red Sea; and those concealed within the natural order.
The story of Queen Esther’s courage was a hidden miracle that occurred within a story, all too reminiscent of our potential annihilation. Queen Esther convinced the King to reverse his decision to kill all the Jews and to hire Mordechai as an advisor. The King did not know that Esther and Mordechai were Jews until she disclosed the truth. Esther means “revealing the hidden.” Esther’s ability to change the King’s mind and accept two Jews into his inner circle was a miracle.
A miracle we can all access is a state beyond judgment. The contemporary mystic Rabbi Trugman reminds us, “the highest knowing is not to know.” One finds this manner of non-thinking in Buddhism. By non-thinking, I mean not relying on over analysis and logic. For western thinkers, this is difficult. Another way to understand the concept is faith, i.e. that there is a God or not all people are bad.
A simpler way to explain this miracle is childlike wonder. Even for just a moment, one can find joy in nature, a brownie, or a conversation between people. Biting into a delicious baked good and tasting the combination of butter, chocolate and sweetness is a miracle. A colorful sunset is a miracle. When I walked along the ocean in Hawaii, I looked continually at the scene before my eyes. I experienced a sense of beauty, just for a moment, before any protruding thoughts could enter my mind. That is joy or a hidden miracle in life.
Finding joy, as we welcome the months of the year, appears to be a common theme in Jewish thought, which makes sense given the continuous misfortune the Jews have experienced over the centuries. All humans seek happiness amidst sorrow, peace during times of conflict. Jews do not own tragedy. That would be the highest form of hubris.
Let us try to find some joy in the midst of anxiety and powerlessness by reminding ourselves of the superhero, Queen Esther.
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