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Dvar Torah for Purim
Based on Likutey Halakhot Birkhot HaReiyah 4:12-13
Amalek, the arch-enemy of the Jewish people, is cunning. In his
on-going efforts to harm us and distract us from our purpose of
making the world a holier place to live, he connives to have us
do his work for him. He stirs up dissension among us so that at
best we waste our time and energy, and at worst....
The way to defeat him is through peace. This is why Megilat
Esther is called "words of peace and truth" (Esther 9:30) and
ends "spoke peace to all their offspring" (ibid. 10:3).
Peace is achieved through fasting. Thus Queen Esther called for
Mordekhai to gather "all the Jews in Shushan and fast" (ibid.
4:16). "Fasting" in Breslov literature always serves as
shorthand for self-control in the face of temptation (e.g., not
scratching that itch). When you need less of the pie, you are
glad to give away what you have to your fellow.
This is why we have the Purim mitzvot of matanot l'evyonim
and mishloach manot (gifts for the poor and the
sending of foods); to spread peace and love.
To marshal all the forces of Creation in service, to make peace
and increasing peace was the goal of all the service of the Holy
Temple. May we witness its re-building soon, in our lifetime.
Amen.
Have a happy and holy Purim! And...
if you're drinking, DON'T DRIVE!
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