Rosh Chodesh Adar

מי שנכנס אדר מרבים בשמחה

When Adar enters, we increase our joy,

The gemarah in Massechet Taanit discusses fasting during times of drought, or other calamities. But on daf 29a the gemarah discusses that during the month of Adar, the level of joy should be increased, as it is a time of redemption and salvation.

The idea of increasing joy during the month of Adar is also connected to the holiday of Purim, which is celebrated on the 14th of Adar (or the 15th in some places). The joy of Purim is expressed through feasting, drinking, and giving gifts to friends and the poor. Massechet Megilla (7b) teaches that on Purim, one should become so joyous that they cannot distinguish between the blessing of Mordechai and the curse of Haman.

One of the key themes of Purim is the idea of hidden miracles. The story of Purim, as recounted in the Book of Esther, tells of a plot by the wicked Haman to destroy the Jewish people. Through a series of miraculous events, including the bravery of Esther and the help of her cousin Mordechai, the Jewish people are saved and Haman's plot is foiled.

But what is perhaps most remarkable about the story of Purim is the fact that the name of God is never mentioned in the Megilla. The miracle of Purim is a hidden miracle, one that is not immediately apparent to the casual observer. And yet the miracle happens, albeit through the actions of Esther, Mordechai.

This idea of hidden miracles is particularly relevant to the month of Adar, a time when we are reminded to look beyond the surface of things and seek out the hidden beauty and wonder in the world around us. It is easy to become jaded and cynical, to focus on the negative and overlook the positive. But the month of Adar challenges us to take a different approach, to seek out the hidden miracles that are all around us.

As we enter the month of Adar, let us remember the power of hidden miracles and the importance of cultivating a sense of gratitude and joy in our lives. May we be inspired by the bravery and resilience of Esther and Mordechai, and may we always be open to the wonder and beauty of the world around us.

Chodesh Tov!