Happy Purim eve.

I’m already into the spirit of Purim!

It’s the happiest day in the Jewish calendar.

What’s the last thing that would come to mind when we think Purim?

Yom Kippur.

Two opposites.

But Jewish tradition says that there’s a connection.

What do Yom Kippur and Purim have in common?

They are both very spiritual days. Days to get close with G-d.

Yom Kippur?

By fasting and praying. And self-examination.

Purim?

It’s another way of getting close to G-d.

Through joy.  And love.

On Purim we celebrate being Jewish!

The privilege of being part of the most special People in history.

A People who’s survival is an absolute miracle.

We express our love for our fellow Jew. Every Jew!

… I think it’s a shame that so many Jews fast on Yom Kippur … but so many of them don’t celebrate Purim.

Because celebrating being Jewish is what guarantees our future.

 … There was a fellow from a very assimilated Jewish background who was studying in a Yeshiva in Jerusalem. A Yeshiva for people with limited Jewish backgrounds.

How did he end up in a Yeshiva?

After backpacking through Europe, he decided to pass through Israel.

He was in Jerusalem one day. Not knowing that it was Purim.

And he heard loud music coming from a building and decided to check it out.

People were dancing like crazy!

They told him, “This is a Yeshiva. Today is Purim and it’s a special Mitzvah (Commandment) to dance and to celebrate. To let it all hang out! We even allow ourselves a few drinks”!

His response?

” I like this religion. Think I’ll check it out!”

… I’ve really enjoyed our learning together over the past two weeks.

But I don’t know most of you.

And what better time to meet than Purim!

Let’s do Purim together!