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Take Seriously Call to Civic Participation
The Jewish holiday of Purim (March 21), celebrating the victory of Persian Jews against their planned destruction, 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. Seventy-six years before Athenian democracy, Babylonian Jews developed majority rule in their academies and courts.
The commandments to work toward justice fall 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).
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 added a 19th 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
Hilton Head Island
Delicious ideas to please the pickiest eaters. Watch the video on AOL Living.
