A Moment in Time: One Voice Can Make a Difference

Dear all,

There's an interesting connection between Purim and Yom Kippur.  Our tradition bridges the two via word-play: יום כפור = יום כפורים/ Yom Kippur = Yom C'Purim (Yom Kippur is a day “like” Purim).  There are many reasons Judaism associates the two.  But I offer here what I believe to be the most compelling….

On Yom Kippur, we say that our fate is sealed.  But our liturgy leaves the door open that our actions can alter the decree.

And on Purim, when Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews is set, Esther comes forward to change the future.

Each action, each voice, each opportunity to make a difference ….  We should always be mindful that each moment in time allows us/ DEMANDS US to be driven by purpose rather than fated by decree.

With love and Shalom,

Rabbi Zach Shapiro