Be Happy

You may have heard Bobby McFerrin or the even more "laid back" Bob Marley singing, "Don't Worry, Be Happy."  But the "original" Hebrew song has been sung at Purim celebrations for years in Synagogues around the world.  "Mishenichnas Adar Marbim Besimcha," goes the snappy jingle, meaning, from the start of Adar our joy increases.  But did you ever wonder why we are commanded to Be Happy during the Hebrew month of Adar?  Rashi explains that just as our joy is reduced in the month of Av because of the destruction of the Temple and exile, our joy is increased in Adar because of our salvation by God, first on Purim and then on Pesach. (Ta'anit 29A). 

This Wednesday night from 4:30-7 PM we'll be reading the Megillah and enjoying the Purim shpiel from"Diary a Wimpy King" performed by our students.  Not to mention the goldfish, games, hotdogs, and hamentashen.  In chapter 9, the reason for our joy become clear.  We are told that we should transform our grief at almost being annihilated by Haman into rejoicing.  We are to make the 14th of Adar a holiday celebrated "in every generation, by every family, in every province and city.  It is a day of feasting and merrymaking; a time to send gifts to one another and presents to the poor.  These days of Purim shall never cease among the Jews, and shall never perish from amongst their descendants." 

Well now that we understand why we're to be happy during the month containing Purim, I'm left wondering what about the next month of Nisan?  We'll be slaving away cleaning and preparing for Pesach.  Songs of liberation aside, how shall we stay happy then, and the rest of the year?  Mary J. Blige gave us an answer when she crooned, "All I really want is to be happy."  She says that joy comes from loving someone, and receiving love in return.  To that Grammy worthy advice I'll add these two pearls of wisdom: Don't take life or yourself too seriously (so come in costume)  and always be on the lookout for things that make you laugh and smile (I guarantee you'll find this year's performance hilarious).

Hag Purim Samayach,
Rabbi Molash Niktolp