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The Obligation to EnjoyMarch 2008From the Desk of Rabbi Cohon“Mishenichnas Adar Marbim b’Simcha-- when we enter Adar, we multiply joy!” We all know that Judaism is designed to make us better, holier people. But we also tend to think that goodness precludes pleasure. And then the month of Adar comes along… Purim is the antidote to the notion that religion isn’t fun. Based on the colorful story of Esther in the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, it is a romance of kings and courtiers, intrigue, disaster, and deliverance. And through the past 2500 years of Jewish history it has shown us that a faith based on ethics and meaning can still be pure fun. At its heart, Purim celebrates the dangerous absurdity of trying to do away with Jews. In spite of the attacks of all of Haman’s descendants, somehow we manage to keep going, and our attackers don’t. As the famous nine-word description of the Jewish historical holidays puts it, “They tried to kill us, we won, let’s eat!” We also sing, dance, drink, and generally party in celebration of everything that’s great—and most accessible— about Judaism. Join us at Temple Emanu-El for two fabulous events: first, our spectacular Purim Extravaganza and Carnival, the most elaborate, finest, most creative, and silly celebration of Purim in Arizona (and, perhaps, the universe), on Sunday, March 16th at 10 AM. Don’t miss it! It’s not just for kids. If you’ve never seen our Purim Extravaganza, you must come. If you have seen it, you know just how much fun it is for every age. Our full show is the Purim story as retold Middle East Side Story-style, starring outstanding performers in unusual roles. The Purim Extravaganza also features our Youth Choir, Avanim Rock Band, Drama and Dance Chugim, and a cast of thousands (well, a hundred anyway). It’s followed by a terrific Purim carnival. Thursday, March 21st at 6:30 PM we’ll have our traditional Purim Megillah reading, preceded by a Purim Pizza Party at 5:45 PM and followed by a Hamantash bash. Join us, as we prove that Judaism is also about having a good time! And in this month filled with joy, please be sure to celebrate the talent, dedication, service and graciousness of “Ms. Temple Emanu-El,” Marjorie Hochberg, Friday, March 21st at our 7:30 pm service, and Saturday, March 22nd at the concert in her honor. L’shalom v’rei’ut, in peace and friendship, Rabbi Samuel M. Cohon
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