11 Questions
What is the main difference between Yom Kippur and Purim?
The focus on fasting versus being happy
Why did the yidden feel the need to go to the feast?
They feared something bad might happen if they didn't go
Why did going to the feast make the galus harder for the yidden?
It made them more vulnerable to persecution
Why was going to the feast not against Torah according to Halacha?
Achashverosh provided kosher food up to Mordechai's standards
How does the Zohar view the holidays of Yom Kippur and Purim?
As days of repentance and joy
What is the significance of the month of Adar according to the text?
It is when Jewish court cases are held.
Why did Haman throw lots to determine the day to destroy the Jews?
He wanted to appeal to the supernatural.
How do the concepts of 'casting lots' connect Purim and Yom Kippur?
Both holidays involve casting lots to determine outcomes.
What is the significance of the name 'Purim' according to the text?
It is derived from the Hebrew word for 'destiny'.
What practice occurs on Yom Kippur related to 'casting lots' according to the text?
Deciding which goat to sacrifice.
Why did Haman specifically use a lottery to determine the day to destroy the Jews?
To involve chance in his decision.
Study Notes
Purim and Yom Kippur Similarities
- Both holidays share the idea of "lots" or casting lots to determine an outcome
- While Yom Kippur is associated with teshuva and fasting, Purim is a time for happiness
Yom Kippurim and Purim
- The Zohar notes the similarities between these two holidays
- Yom Hakippurim means "a day like Purim"
Fasting and Feasting
- Fasting is associated with Yom Kippur, while feasting is associated with Purim
- The Jewish people felt compelled to attend the feast to avoid potential danger
Achashverosh's Rule
- Achashverosh ruled that no one should be forced to do something they didn't want to do
- He even provided kosher food that met Mordechai's standards
Purim in Adar
- There is a mitzvah to be happy in the month of Adar
- There are two opinions on when this happiness starts: Rosh Chodesh or Shabbos Mevorchim
- Having a court case in Adar is considered beneficial
- The second of Adar is Moshe's birthday and yahrzeit
The Name "Purim"
- The word "Purim" comes from the Hebrew word "פור" meaning "lots" or "lottery"
Themes of Purim
- Haman threw lots to determine which day the Jewish people would be destroyed
- The purpose of a lottery is to determine an outcome by chance
- This idea connects to both Yom Kippur and Purim, as we cast our "lot" with Hashem on Yom Kippur, hoping for forgiveness
- Haman hoped to appeal to the supernatural by throwing his "lots"
Additional Connection
- On Yom Kippur, we cast "lots" to determine which goat will be brought as a korban or thrown off a cliff, also known as azazel
Learn about the significance of being happy in the month of Adar, different opinions on when it starts, why court cases are advised to be held in Adar, the meaning behind the name 'Purim', and various themes associated with the holiday.
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