The Brisbane Synagogue

Archive for March, 2024

Among the laws of Purim, which commences next Motzei Shabbat (Saturday night), is the following obscure statement “Someone who reads the Megillah (story of Purim) backwards, has not fulfilled their obligation”. Why would anyone be inclined to read the Megillah backwards? According to the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of the Chassidic movement, the deeper meaning of this statement is, that one should not read the story as if it only happened in the past (backwards), rather we have an obligation to apply the story of Purim and its lessons in all times and places.

The Purim story is one of a great threat that loomed over the entire Jewish nation yet, through what appeared to be a series of natural events, together with an increased commitment and strengthening of faith by the Jews of the time, the entire situation was turned upside down and, rather than the Jewish people being annihilated or even harmed, they were saved and elevated to an even higher position than before and, as a result, we end up with the most joyous festival in the Jewish calendar, Purim. Although no mention of the name of Hashem appears throughout the entire story, behind the scenes He is pulling all the strings, which is one of the reasons for the custom to dress up on Purim, whereby we conceal our true identity.

Sometimes, on a personal or communal level we struggle to identify the hand of Hashem in our lives and world events and, and the Purim story reminds us to be aware that behind the scenes Hashem is always there and, through our strengthened commitment and faith, we too will experience the transformation of our challenges into revealed blessings and salvation.

In recent weeks, we have experienced a tangible increase in commitment to Jewish life among many of our members and friends, some of whom have purchased new Tefillin, and have commenced putting them on daily, others have purchased new Mezuzot, started to keep Kosher, and light Shabbat candles, among other positive Jewish changes to their lives. Since the tragic events of Simchat Torah, we have witnessed an unparalleled arousal of religious fervor, throughout the worldwide Jewish community, especially in Israel. Kol Hakavod and may these additional Mitzvot be a source of great blessing to them, their families and all of Klal Yisrael – the Jewish Nation.

This Shabbat we conclude the second book of the Torah, Shemot – Exodus, with the declaration ‘Chazak Chazak Venitchazek’ – ‘Be strong, be strong, let’s be strong’

With heartfelt prayers for the release of the remaining hostages and enduring peace in Israel and throughout the world!

Being that Purim will be celebrated next Sunday, Taanit Esther – the fast of Esther is brought forward to this coming Thursday.

Shabbat Shalom and well over the fast,