As Heard from Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

Shabbat Zachor

“Remember that which Amalek did to you on the way when you went forth from Egypt.” (Devarim 25:17)

After the downfall of Egypt, the Israelites felt secure and became somewhat self-reliant. This great generation certainly did not forget their Father and King, yet a minute degree of trust in Hashem’s help was subtracted from their minds. Therefore Amalek came to refresh their Awareness of the need for Hashem’s constant help. This is therefore one purpose of our many enemies, to remind us always to call for help from Hashem and to become more aware of Him.

We see this principle clearly in the Purim epic. Picture the scene: two wine drinkers are reclining on festive couches. One says, “sell to me all the Jews in your empire for destruction,” and the other replies, “they are yours for the asking.” And Ahashverosh removes his ring of royal authority from his finger and hands it to Haman the sworn enemy of the Jews.

Suddenly the Jews saw doom staring in their face. Now the Jewish nation arose, under the leadership of Mordechai, in a mighty effort of the spirit, never before equaled. On this the Talmud asserts: “The removal of the ring was greater (accomplished more) than 48 prophets and 7 prophetesses.” (Megilah 14A) Whatever the prophets (including Moshe) achieved, it was less than that which Haman (from Amalek) accomplished resulting in, “They accepted again the Torah in the days of Ahashverosh.” (Shabbat 88A)

And this time it was without any reservations, done with full free will and with joy and love for Hashem. Because they knew they were doomed, they fasted for three days, all due to the guidance of the Torah leaders, Mordechai and Esther. Thus they achieved a complete repentance in a national experience never even remotely equaled in the history of Mankind. And then, suddenly, there is Haman hanging and also his ten sons, neatly in a row!!

But Israel has an alternative. If we cry out in gratitude always to Hashem, we do not need any harassment from the nations; for calling to Hashem out of grateful happiness gains even more favor from Hashem.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim

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