A Perpetual Purim

In 2022, Rabbi Marc Baker wrote, “The Purim story is a satire of how absurd, random, and upside down the world can be, and how out of control that can make us feel. Satire, silliness, humor, and joy are forms of spiritual resistance against the absurdity of our world. As one of my earliest spiritual teachers used to say, “laughter is transcendent.” At the same time, as the heroic Esther reminds us, we must never lose our agency and our ability to act. Sometimes, we can even change the course of history.”

Fast forward two years, and it seems to me as though the entire universe has fallen through the proverbial rabbit hole on October 7th, and we’ve arrived in this bizarre place where it’s hard to make sense of matters that seemingly should be very black and white.? It’s a perpetual Purim.

The Jewish holiday of Purim is intricately linked with the tradition of giving to charity, known as "Matanot La'evyonim" in Hebrew, which translates to "gifts to the needy." This charitable aspect is considered one of the central mitzvot (commandments) of Purim.

In times such as these – how is it appropriate to be a little silly and celebrate? The story of Purim is serious and complex: about bravery, cultural pride, and community unity. But we celebrate it with themes of joy and generosity.? Jewish law prohibits public displays of mourning on the holiday, even for close relatives. Why?

According to the Book of Esther, Haman, the villain of the story, plotted to exterminate the Jewish people living in the Persian Empire. Through the bravery and cleverness of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai, the Jewish people were saved from destruction.

In commemoration of our deliverance, the Jewish people celebrate Purim annually. One of the key themes of Purim is the concept of communal responsibility. This is reflected in the tradition of giving to charity, which emphasizes the importance of supporting those in need within the community.

On Purim, it is customary for Jews to give gifts of food or money to at least two needy individuals. This act of charity is intended to spread joy and ensure that everyone can partake in the festivities of the holiday, regardless of their financial situation. Additionally, giving to charity on Purim is believed to bring blessings and increase one's own joy during the holiday.

Shortly after October 7th, my friend, Dallas real estate entrepreneur Tammy Diamond , created an Instagram account called @dallasstandswithisrael to facilitate the sale of sweatshirts, t-shirts, and now purses to deepen the connection between Dallas and Israel, support the IDF, hostages, and raise awareness and funds.? The group behind the cause has now raised over $20,000 and just recently returned from a visit to Israel where they delivered equipment and supplies purchased with these resources and volunteered across Israel.

I purchased a sweatshirt that says, “We will dance again,” the words that Nova music festival survivor Mia Schem had inked on her arm after enduring serious injury and being returned from her violent kidnapping into Gaza, where dozens still remain to this day.? Every time I wear it, I'm reminded of this act of spiritual resistance and insistence that we WILL find joy again, despite the unending tragedies that befall our community, and it keeps a flicker of hope alive for me.?

Mia and Tammy’s resolve and action call to mind Mordecai’s famous words from the Purim story, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” The legacy of Queen Esther endures – her story reminds us that even in the face of insurmountable odds, one person’s action can create a transformative chain reaction.? We are each building our legacy now, and though I suspect that many of us don’t feel much like dancing, our Jewish tradition commands us to be participants in this act of spiritual resistance.? I’m more convinced than ever that Am Yisrael Chai – the Jewish people live.?

In need of Matanot La'evyonim Ideas? Our crisis response page is still active – we’ve raised $1.75 million for support of Israel, securing our community, and combatting hate & antisemitism. We continue to update the giving opportunities as we learn of new and innovative, trustworthy opportunities in need of support.?

Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy Purim. Thank you for the trust and confidence you place in us as your partners in philanthropy.

Sincerely,

Megan Hyman

CEO & President