Month of Adar (12th in JRC, 6th in JCC)

Adar 

The month after Shevat is Adar, the twelfth and final month of the Jewish religious calendar (and the sixth month of the civil calendar). Adar is considered a joyous and celebratory month, marking the transition from winter to spring, with themes of divine providence and redemption.

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Key Features of Adar

1. Joy and Celebration:

• "When Adar Enters, Joy Increases" (Talmud, Ta’anit 29a):
  • Adar is renowned for being the most joyous month of the Jewish calendar, due to the celebration of Purim and the deliverance of the Jewish people in the story of Esther.

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2. Purim (14th and 15th of Adar):

• Celebrated on the 14th of Adar:
  • Commemorates the salvation of the Jews from the decree of Haman in the Persian Empire, as recorded in the Book of Esther.
• Customs Include:
  • Reading the Megillah (Scroll of Esther).
  • Giving gifts of food (Mishloach Manot).
  • Giving charity to the poor (Matanot LaEvyonim).
  • Festive meals and rejoicing.
• Shushan Purim (15th of Adar):
  • Celebrated in cities like Jerusalem, which were walled in the time of Joshua.

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3. Leap Year and Second Adar (Adar II):

• In a Jewish leap year, an additional month, Adar II, is added.
  • In such cases, Purim is celebrated in Adar II to maintain its proximity to Passover.
  • Adar I (the added month) is still a time of joy, but Purim customs are reserved for Adar II.

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Themes of Adar

1. Divine Providence:

   • The events of Purim emphasize God's hidden hand in the salvation of His people. The name of God does not explicitly appear in the Book of Esther, symbolizing His providence even when unseen.

2. Victory Over Adversity:

   • Adar celebrates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair.

3. Transformation and Redemption:

   • The reversal of fortunes in the Purim story reflects the theme of "turning mourning into joy" (Esther 9:22).

4. Joy as a Weapon:

   • Adar teaches the importance of joy and gratitude, especially in the face of challenges.

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Practical Observances in Adar

1. Increasing Joy:

   • Engage in activities that uplift the spirit and foster community happiness.

2. Charity and Acts of Kindness:

   • Follow the Purim custom of giving to those in need and increasing acts of kindness.

3. Reading the Megillah:

   • Attend or host a public reading of the Book of Esther during Purim.

4. Festive Meals and Celebrations:

   • Participate in joyous Purim feasts with friends and family.

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Historical Events in Adar

1. Moses’ Birth and Passing (7th of Adar):

   • According to tradition, Moses was born and passed away on the 7th of Adar. This date is significant in Jewish tradition and is marked with reflection.

2. Victory Over Amalek (Purim):

   • The story of Purim is seen as a continuation of the struggle against Amalek, representing the eternal battle against evil forces.

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Conclusion

Adar is a month of unparalleled joy, emphasizing the themes of divine providence, redemption, and resilience. It prepares the Jewish people for the upcoming season of redemption in Nisan with its culmination in the joyous celebration of Purim. Whether in a regular or leap year, Adar serves as a reminder of the power of faith, unity, and joy to overcome life's greatest challenges.