Rabbi's Message Feb. 24, 2026 - Psalm 22 for Purim
Shalom,
The Hebrew month of Adar is here, we’re supposed to be joyous! As we learn from Talmud, “Mishenichnas Adar marbim b'simcha - When [the month of] Adar enters, we increase in joy.” (Ta’anit 29a). It is with the arrival of Spring, its rebirth, and the coming festival of Purim that inspires such joy.
The Book of Esther describes a reality of a world upside down, about reversals of fortune. From Haman’s (booo!) fall from power, King Ahasheurus’ pivot to actually lead, and of course Esther’s transformation to own her Jewish identity, twists and turns of fate and destiny fill the Scroll of Esther.
We are experiencing twists and turns as well. The tragedies in Truckee in recent weeks, the weather whiplash, the headlines in the news all echo these feelings of uncertainty. The world feels upside down. In our Jewish tradition, there is a Psalm connected to the celebration of Purim, Psalm 22>>>. According to Rabbinic lore, Esther recited this Psalm as she approached the King seeking salvation for her people, our people. The Psalm depicts a feeling of despair, of loss and tragedy. Yet, it rises from these depths with a growing confidence in a feeling of redemption, a recognition that better is possible.
This was Esther’s way of gaining comfort, even confidence. Where do we turn today? Each of us must find our own Psalm 22 in our moment. That individual search is for each of us. Yet, collectively, as a community, we turn to each other. We know that relationships, family, community, friends, perhaps even the natural world have the potential to strengthen. The network of connection, wherever and everywhere we can notice it, is the supportive and connective tissue of being human.
The story of Purim reminds us that we are connected and not only particularly as the Jewish people. The celebration of Purim encourages us to share, to offer gifts to those in need (matanot l’evyonim). It is a time that we can discover again the beauty and joy of life, along with the severity it also brings, when we cherish the human connection.
As Rabbi Lauren shared in community this past Shabbat:
“We cannot undo what has happened.
We cannot guarantee safety.
But we can choose what we build in response.
We can build spaces where fear is named rather than denied.
Where children are protected not only by rules, but by community.
Where joy is not postponed until the world feels safe enough.
Where remembrance and resilience stand side by side.”
May this week inspire us to build beauty in our world and the coming festival of Purim bring us together to celebrate the joy!
Shavua Tov,
Rabbi Evon
