A MESSAGE TO THE KEHILLA FROM RABBI CZITRON: Purim and Iranian War

Dear Kehilla,

In these days we are witnessing a widespread attack against Israel coming from Iran. The leadership of the regime has been eliminated, but it is clear to all of us that this is still not the end, and we do not know how long this will continue. Our hearts are with the soldiers of the IDF and the security forces fighting evil and fulfilling in practice the mitzvah of תמחה את זכר עמלק “blotting out the memory of Amalek”  literally against those who seek to destroy and annihilate עם ישראל.

But beyond the headlines and the military developments there are people. There are friends. There are families. There are those who have already lost loved ones. There are those sitting in bomb shelters for long days, with small children, with anxiety, with uncertainty.

Please know, we are thinking of you and of them. We carry you in our hearts and in our תפילות. We have begun saying Tehillim after every davening, out of a deep sense of responsibility and solidarity. If anyone needs a listening ear, please know that I am here for you.

Precisely in these days, as we approach Purim, we remember how in the days of Megillat Esther the Jewish people stood under a decree of annihilation that came from Persia. Then too, it seemed that evil was powerful and entrenched. And then too, salvation did not come in a single moment, but through a process of תפילות, צום, courage, and self-sacrifice.

Brief halachot of Ta’anit Esther and Purim:

Ta’anit Esther:

* Observed on the 13th of Adar (2.3.26)
* The fast runs from dawn until nightfall.
* Pregnant and nursing women, as well as those who are ill, are exempt. Anyone who finds fasting particularly difficult should ask for guidance.

Purim:

* Reading Megillat Esther at night and again during the day, one must hear every word.
* Mishloach manot at least two food items to one person.
* Matanot la’evyonim at least two gifts to two needy individuals.
* The Purim meal during the day, celebrated with joy and gratitude.
* We remember that “When Adar enters, we increase in joy”, not a joy of denial, but a deep אמונה that Hashem guides His world even within concealment.

May we merit to see complete salvation very soon, good news, comfort for the bereaved families, and protection for all our brothers and sisters wherever they are.