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RABBI ARTHUR SEGAL: ON PURIM, LOTS, AND BALLOTS
Dear Editor:
The Jewish Holiday, Purim (3/21/07), celebrating victory of Persian Jews against their planned destruction circa 357 BCE, is discussed in the Book of Esther. Their nemesis, Haman, cast lots (purim) to determine the date of the annihilation.
Purim also means ''ballots.'' Every four years we are concerned about our democracy. 76 years before Athenian democracy, Babylonian Jews, developed majority rule in their academies and courts.
The commandments of working towards justice falls upon Jews each day and not just when voting. "If your brother becomes poor, and his means of support fail, you must uphold him." (Lev. 25:25).
While the Talmud teaches us that ''all Jews are responsible for one another,'' the universality of God certainly tells Jews that we are indeed responsible ''for being a light to all nations'', (Isa. 49:6) and our responsibilities do not stop at the synagogue doorway.
Jewish sages didn't define 'poor', as having not enough to eat. Being without religious or political freedom, and the universal need and right for these, is a theme of many of Jewish holidays, including Purim.
The Mishna wisely teaches: "Pray for the welfare of the government, since but for fear of it men would swallow each other alive." Rabbi Gamliel, in 220 CE, added a 19 th prayer to the Amidah , which asks God to: "uproot the arrogant government. Blessed are You, God, Who humbles the arrogant"
Modern Rabbis added: "Guide me in choosing leaders who will bring peace and prosperity. May my vote be followed with actions of civic involvement."
Rabbi Arthur Segal
Delicious ideas to please the pickiest eaters. Watch the video on AOL Living.
