Purim is one of Judaism’s happiest holidays, in which Jews celebrate their salvation from Haman’s evil plan to destroy them. On Purim, the Jewish people are obligated to perform four unique mitzvot that reflect this day of joy: reading the Megillah, having a seudah (feast), giving Mishloach Manot (gifts of food), and giving Matanot L’evyonim (gifts to the poor). Two out of four of these mitzvot have to do with giving, which is very unlike any other Jewish holiday. Purim’s main mitzvot are based on giving to others.
This presents a significant question: Why is it that Purim, out of all the different Jewish holidays, has its central mitzvot as giving to others? Why is generosity one of the most important ways to honor this holiday, and what messages are these mitzvot meant to convey?
According to Pirkei Avot 2:7, “מרבה צדקה מרבה שלום”–“The more charity, the more peace.” This statement from Pirkei Avot teaches a significant lesson about giving and its connection to unity. The basis of Haman’s plan was the division within the Jewish community, which was very prominent in Shushan. He took this tension and used it as an opportunity to destroy us. This moment warns of the dangers of division and how it leaves populations vulnerable. The only way to combat this is through unity, and one of the most effective ways to accomplish this unity is by giving.
By giving gifts to others, Jews actively create unity. Mishloach Manot is more than just delivering baskets of food; it is about showing friends that they are cared for, creating lasting bonds and unity.
When giving Matanot L’evyonim, Jews demonstrate that every person in the community is important, no matter their financial status. It shows how they are responsible for one another, which further fosters unity within the Jewish community.
This idea is exactly what Pirkei Avot is trying to teach: the more one gives, the more peace they make. This also explains why the mitzvot of giving are so central to Purim. Purim is not just about celebrating the miracles that Hashem made for us. It is about celebrating the unity that Jews had towards the end when coming together against all of the evil people who wanted them destroyed, which is a miracle within itself.
Today, the Jewish people are spread throughout the world, facing many different challenges. Purim reminds Jews that the way to combat these challenges is through acts of giving. So, the next time that someone gives Mishloach Manot or Matanot L’evyonim on Purim, it should serve as a reminder that this act of tzedakah is the first step towards achieving peace and unity throughout the Jewish community. Purim is not just a day of happiness. It is a day that reminds the Jewish people that through giving, they become a peaceful, connected nation.
