Parasha Thoughts
By Rabbi Yosef Shemtov
The name Purim means lottery. Why is this important holiday called Purim? The Gemara answers that when Haman decided to kill all of Benei Israel, he made a lottery to see which month and which day would be ideal to implement his cruel plan. However, the question remains: why the name Purim? Because Haman made his decision through a lottery?
The Gemara explains that Haman drew the lottery on the first month and the 13 of Adar came out, meaning 12 months later. This by itself was a blessing for the Jews as it allowed them time to repent and to prepare to defend themselves.Haman was very happy that the month of Adar was chosen because he knew that this was the month Moshe Rabbeinu passed away.
The Gemara says he didn’t know that Moshe Rabbeinu was also born during the month of Adar..
The Maharal explains that Haman was happy because he thought that after the passing of Moshe Rabbeinu, open miracles had finished and Hashem wouldn’t perform any more miracles. He, however, didn’t know that there are also hidden miracles that Hashem always does for us and Moshe Rabbeinu’s birth and his upbringing in the palace represent hidden miracles for Beni Israel. If we look at the Purim story, we see every incident is a hidden miracle. Haman really knew Moshe Rabbeinu was born in Adar, but he didn’t realize Hashem is always with his nation and always listens to their prayers.
Haman thought everything happens by chance and coincidence. We believe everything is under Hashem’s supervision. Even when you draw from a lottery, the outcome is Hashem’s will.
Purim is a holiday during which we remember Hashem is in control and he always listens to our prayers.
On behalf of the Yachad Kollel Rabbis, I would like to wish you a happy and meaningful Purim!