Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message – March 13, 2025
The Jewish calendar is fascinating—not just because of its blend of lunar and solar cycles, but because of how we engage with it. Our holidays don’t just happen; we declare them holy. Time itself isn’t inherently sacred. It becomes so because we make it meaningful.
Leviticus 23:2 tells us, “These are the fixed times of the Eternal, sacred occasions, which you shall call them… My festivals, each in its appointed time.” That phrase—you shall call them—reminds us that holiness is something we create through intention and action.
Enter Adar, the month of joy. “When Adar arrives, we increase our joy.” But joy doesn’t just show up on its own—we cultivate it. Purim, the highlight of Adar, isn’t holy just because it’s on the calendar. It becomes holy because we make it so. When we read the Megillah, dress up, bake hamentashen, give gifts, and help those in need—we sanctify the day. We declare that even in a complicated world, joy still has a place.
As we heard from Rabbi Sobo a few weeks ago, our Purim celebration is themed Inside Out this year, which feels incredibly fitting. Inside Out isn’t just about emotions—it’s about recognizing that joy doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s intertwined with sadness, fear, and uncertainty. That’s what makes it real. Purim is much the same. It’s a holiday of laughter, silliness, and fun, but it’s also a story of courage in the face of fear, of revealing truths that had been hidden. Esther didn’t know how things would turn out, but she stepped forward anyway.
And that’s the power of Purim. It reminds us that joy isn’t just an emotion; it’s an action, a choice. Even in difficult times—especially in difficult times—we can carve out moments of light, laughter, and celebration. This isn’t about ignoring hardship or pretending all is well. It’s about embracing the full spectrum of our emotions and still choosing joy.
Tonight, as we welcome Purim together, let’s remember that holiness isn’t distant or abstract. It’s in our hands. We declare time sacred when we fill it with purpose—whether through tradition, community, or simply making space for joy—from the inside out.
Chag Purim Sameach!