Purim and the Threat of War in Israel
We are on the cusp of one of the most notable Jewish holidays of the year: Purim. During this holiday, we commemorate the Jewish people’s survival from a genocide plot in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), as told in the Book of Esther.
The villain Haman sought to annihilate all Jews in the Persian Empire, but through courage and divine intervention and clever thinking on behalf of the Jewish heroine Esther, the plot was foiled and the Jews were saved.
Modern Resonance
It feels like we are watching a biblical manifestation of Purim – as Israel and Iran remain at an impasse regarding diplomatic talks and threats of a U.S. military strike towards Iran seem imminent. The same geographic region that threatened Jewish existence back then (Persia) remains a threat to Jewish existence today, as Iran has openly called for Israel’s destruction and funds proxy forces Hezbollah and Hamas, who have terrorized Israeli citizens for decades.
The threat of war between Israel and Iran has loomed for years, and last summer I was unfortunate enough to experience the first direct war between the two countries during a family visit to Israel. It was not pleasant, and I hope to never experience anything close to that in the future. Yet when I speak to family and friends in Israel, they are going on with their plans, and their life and not running away, even with the threat of what could be a more intense war – looming.
Fear and Prophecy
One mother responded to friends who asked her if she is afraid – as her young adult son is in Israel and she is in America.
She responded with a comment from our Sages:
״בניי, אל תתייראו.
כל מה שעשיתי לא עשיתי אלא בשבילכם.
מפני מה אתם מתייראים?
אל תיראו הגיע זמן גאולתכם.״
“My children, do not be afraid. Everything I have done, I have done only for you. Why are you afraid? Do not fear the time of your redemption has arrived.”
This text appears in Shemot Rabbah (Exodus Rabbah) 21:5-6, which is a Midrashic commentary on the Book of Exodus.
Purim Story Unfolding
The brave mother explains that even in dark times, redemption and survival are possible. With current tensions involving Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional conflicts, and complex international dynamics, Jewish “believers” may find comfort in these teachings.
We are living in prophetic times, explains the mother – whose son remains in Israel, and countless other mothers who remain with two feet on the ground in Israel.
Mishloach Manot
During Purim its customary to take part in a custom which involves giving and receiving of culinary treats called Mishloach Manot (משלוח מנות) which means “sending portions” and is one of the four main mitzvot (commandments) of Purim as written in The Book of Esther (9:22). The modern tradition involves creating a basket or tray of festive treats which we deliver to another individual or family on Purim day. People often give mishloach manot to friends, neighbors, family, making it a fun community-wide tradition.
Preparing Mishloach Mishloach Manot is one way to feel aligned with this holiday and it’s ironic and prophetic timing. It takes some planning and creativity, and it’s an intentional gesture to connect with fellow members of our community.
Instead of fear, I try to keep those words of the Sages who remind us of the resilience of the Jewish people and importance of community in the face of adversity.
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