LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Tetzave - Your Purim Guide - 5781

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B"H
LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach

PARSHAT TETZAVE, 5781
Purim - 14 Adar, 5781
February 26, 2021

SPECIAL FEATURE:
Your Purim Guide - 5781

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* HaPpY PuRiM *
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* Bring Moshiach now *
* by adding in acts of goodness & kindness *
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* This week's issue of Living With Moshiach *
* is dedicated in loving memory of *
* Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel *
* Stayer *
* Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 *
* * *
* May her Soul Merit Eternal Life *
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THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON
OF LUBAVITCH

"I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH.

"AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING
HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12

*********************
* TABLE OF CONTENTS *
*********************
* Introduction.
* Customs Corner.
* The Weekly Torah Portion.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Tes Adar.
* Why Be Moshiach-Minded?.
* Purim Message from the Rebbe.
* Your Purim Guide.
* Purim - Then and Now.
* Joy & Happiness.
* The Mitzvot of Purim.
* This Year Purim Ends on Friday Afternoon.
* Other Observances of Purim.
* Shushan Purim.
* Hamentaschen Recipe.
* One Plus One Equals Purim.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* A Call To Action.
* Happy Purim.
* The Weekly Shabbat Calendar.
* "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting
Shabbat Candles.
* Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind.
* Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing.
* Moshiach Information Hotlines.
* Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media.
* Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine:
Living With Moshiach.

****************
* INTRODUCTION *
****************

We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the
blind, the 1223rd issue of our weekly publication, Living With
Moshiach.

*

1) Tes Adar, the Ninth day of the Hebrew month of Adar,
Sunday, February 21. On this day, 81 years ago, (in 5700,
March 19, 1940), the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok
Schneersohn, arrived in the United States.

For all purposes, this day marks the beginning of the
"dissemination of the wellsprings (of Chasidus) to the
outside" in the Northern Hemisphere.

2) The festive holiday of Purim, which begins on Thursday
night, February 25.

Therefore, we present here "Your Purim Guide," [*] and
other related material about Purim.

*

Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing
us to use their material.

Also, many thanks to our new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman,
for his tireless efforts,.

and, many thanks to our former copy editor, Reb Mordechai
Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"),
for his tireless efforts.

*

It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the
Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW!

Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov
Executive Director
Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc.
E-Mail:y...@torah4blind.org
9 Adar, 5781
Los Angeles, California

P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of
Moshiach, at any moment, we have included the five
blessings that (according to many opinions) will be
applicable when Moshiach comes.
_______________
* Published by Outreach Publishing Corp.
Special thanks to Rabbi M. Borisute for his help.

Cover artwork (in the large-type edition) by Chassidic artist,
Michoel Muchnik "http://www.muchnikarts.com"

*************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF *
* Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi *
* ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi *
* Shagalov *
* Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu *
* Ekman *
* Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 *
* *
* Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer *
* Marenburg *
* Passed away on the second day *
* of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel *
* Ekman (Santiago, Chile) *
* Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* *
* AND IN HONOR OF *
* Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva *
* Shagalov *
* * *
* Dedicated by *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*************************************************

******************
* CUSTOMS CORNER *
******************

Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach
comes?

According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be
applicable when Moshiach comes. [*]

#1

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
GA'AL YISRAEL.

Translation:

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who redeems Israel.

#2

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU
LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us
to reach this occasion.

#3

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him.

#4

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given honor to those who fear Him.

#5

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
the Wise One of secrets.

_______________
*. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn,
NY. "www.lchaimweekly.org".

*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 *
* *
* Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf *
* Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 *
* Pais *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* * *
* Dedicated by their grandchildren *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*********************************************

***************************************
* THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************

PARSHAT TETZAVE

This week's Torah reading, Tetzave, is the only portion in the
entire Torah following Moses' birth, in which Moses' name does not
appear.

Our Sages explain that the reason for this omission was Moses'
own request, made to G-d after, the Children of Israel sinned with
the Golden Calf: "And if not (if You will not forgive them), blot
me out, I pray you, from Your book which You have written." The
words of a tzadik, a holy and righteous person, are always
fulfilled, even if spoken conditionally. Thus, we find that Moses'
wish was granted in this week's Torah portion, for his name never
appears in the entire portion.

However, when we delve into the text itself, we find an
interesting phenomenon: This chapter, which specifically does not
mention Moses, begins with a direct address to the very person
whose name it omits! "And you shall command (ve'ata tetzave)."

A name is of lesser importance than a person's essential nature.
It is a means of identification and a way of being known to others.
But one does not really need a name in order to live. A newborn
baby exists as an independent being from the moment it is born, and
only receives its name after several days. From this we learn that
the use of the grammatical second person, "you," expresses an even
higher level of relationship than calling a person by his given
name, which was only bestowed on him secondarily.

If such is the case, then it follows that the omission of Moses'
name only serves to underscore the very special essence of Moses,
which was even higher than the mention of his name could express.

Moses' whole life was Torah, to the extent that we refer to the
Torah as "The Five Books of Moses." But his greatness was best
illustrated when the lowest elements among the Children of Israel
sinned with the Golden Calf, explicitly expressing their desire to
separate themselves from the Torah. Yet, Moses was willing to
sacrifice that which he held most dear on their behalf. "Blot out
my name from Your book," Moses pleaded with G-d, "if You will not
forgive them even this grave sin."

Moses and the Jews formed one entity, each of whose existence
was dependent upon the other. The commentator Rashi explains:
"Moses is Israel, and Israel is Moses." When even some Jews sinned,
Moses suffered a spiritual blow. Even though Moses was up on Mount
Sinai when the Golden Calf was actually made, he was still affected
by the actions of the others.

It was Moses' self-sacrifice and his desire to forgo that which
was most important to him that express a unity that is beyond mere
names. It is therefore precisely the portion Tetzave, in which
Moses is not mentioned, that reveals his strength and his
greatness. The willingness to sacrifice oneself for every fellow
Jew, even one who sins, is the mark of every true leader of the
Jewish People.

************************
* THE REBBE'S PROPHECY *
************************

The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued
a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and
"MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!"

The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and
asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through
increasing acts of goodness and kindness.

LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL.

* * *

What makes the Rebbe's declaration -- that Moshiach's arrival is
imminent and the time for the Redemption has arrived -- different
from those of great leaders of previous generations?

The Jewish people have believed in and awaited Moshiach's coming
since the beginning of our nation. In numerous instances throughout
Jewish history, tzaddikim (righteous people) of various generations
pointed to hints in the Torah that the promised Redemption was near
at hand. Sensing the special opportunity for Moshiach's coming,
they motivated the Jewish people to study more Torah, do more
mitzvot and repent in the hope that these actions would be what was
needed to make the Redemption happen.

In the times of the Previous Rebbe, the anticipation for the
Redemption was truly tangible. The Previous Rebbe issued an urgent
call to world Jewry: "Immediate repentance brings immediate
Redemption."

Even when the Rebbe accepted the leadership in 1950, though he
said unequivocally that our generation is the last generation to
live in exile and the first generation of the Redemption, he did
not say that we had yet reached the moment of Redemption. Only
forty years later, after sending thousands of emissaries around the
world, initiating the Mitzvah Campaigns to reinvigorate Jewish
observance, and inspiring millions, did the Rebbe proclaim, "The
time of our Redemption has arrived." This is a totally different
message that has never before been enunciated in the history of the
Jewish people.

The Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni) tells us that in a time when we
will witness an event like the Gulf War, Moshiach will tell the
Jewish people that the time of the Redemption has arrived. THIS IS
NOT A HOPE, A WISH, OR A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY, BUT A CALL TO PREPARE
TO GREET MOSHIACH!

The Rebbe has said that the time is now. The question each of us
must ask ourselves is not, "When is Moshiach coming?" but rather,
"Am I ready for Moshiach's coming today!"
______________
See "Living With Moshiach" Vol. 1194-1196:
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5780/1194-1196.txt

*******************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR *
* Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul *
* Staiman *
* Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
*******************************************************

***************************
* WHY BE MOSHIACH-MINDED? *
***************************

When people comment that Lubavitchers may be going a little
overboard, as it seems that every other word is about Moshiach
or Redemption or the Messianic era, our only response is that
we are emulating the Rebbe.

An example (and this is not an exception, but the rule) may be
found in a talk of the Rebbe's 31 years ago (in 5750/1990) at
just about this time of year. At that time the Rebbe spoke of
the 50th anniversary of the previous Rebbe's arrival in America.

In the course of just 5 minutes the Rebbe said:

"May the completion of these 50 years of service bring about
the complete and ultimate redemption -- the eternal Redemption
led by Moshiach.

"The Messianic Redemption is also connected to the present
month, the month of Adar. Adar is a month of celebration as our
Sages commented, 'When Adar commences, happiness should be
increased.' This happiness, in contrast to the happiness of
the other months of the year, is unlimited in nature. Thus,
we find that though the festivals of Passover, Shavuot, and
Sukkot are described as 'festivals of rejoicing,' the court
would send emissaries to ensure that the celebrations were
kept within certain limits. In contrast, the celebrations of
Purim are unlimited in nature. This relates to the Messianic
Redemption, for the ultimate expression of happiness will
come in the Messianic age.

"This unbounded happiness is not restricted to Purim alone.
The Megillah describes Adar as 'the month that was transformed,'
implying that the month as a whole is one of celebration. In
particular, this is true now that eight days of the month have
passed. The number "eight" shares a connection to the Messianic
Redemption.

"The present day, Tuesday, is also connected to the Messianic
Redemption, for Tuesday is associated with the repetition of the
phrase, 'And G-d saw that it was good,' interpreted by our Sages
as a reference to a twofold good: 'good to the heavens' and
'good to the creatures.' This twofold service relates to
Moshiach's coming, since, as our Sages explain, all terms that
are repeated in Torah are allusions to the concept of redemption.

"A connection to the Messianic Redemption can also be found
in this week's Torah portion..."

So you see, if the Rebbe's chasidim and admirers are known to
be Moshiach-minded, it is the greatest compliment possible!

************
* TES ADAR *
************

This week contains within it a special date for the American
Chabad-Lubavitch community, yet possibly even more so for the
American Jewish community at large.

The date is the Ninth of Adar, (Sunday, February 21). On this
day, 81 years ago, (in 5700, March 19, 1940), the Previous Rebbe,
Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, arrived in the United States.

For all purposes, this day marks the beginning of the
"dissemination of the wellsprings (of Chasidus) to the outside"
in the Northern Hemisphere.

Though weakened in body -- as he was confined to a wheelchair
-- he was not weakened in spirit.

After his arrival in the United States, the previous Rebbe
successfully devoted himself to establishing a strong educational
system here. Within two years, yeshivot in New York, Montreal,
Newark, Worcester and Pittsburgh were founded. This flurry of
activity, however, did not at all affect the manner in which he
continued to work toward the establishment of educational
organizations in other parts of the world. For, within ten
years, programs were started in Paris, Safaria (Israel) and
N. Africa.

Before his arrival in the United States, the previous Rebbe
was told that "America is different." The customs and ways from
the "old country" just wouldn't do here. The Rebbe replied in
his usual indomitable manner, "America is not different!" and
proceeded, throughout the rest of his life, to prove that he
was right.

The Jewish community here is greatly indebted to this
prophetic and visionary giant.

* * *

The Previous Rebbe announced, upon his arrival, that he was
going to open the first Chabad-Lubavitch yeshivah in America.
He said, "America iz nisht andersh -- America is not different
[from Europe]." Just as yeshivot had dotted the European
landscape for centuries, so too would they flourish here
in America.

Upon hearing this, many people came to the Previous Rebbe
and tried to dissuade him, citing examples of prominent rabbis
who had also tried to establish yeshivot in America and had
failed.

The Rebbe replied, "I did not come to America to relax, but
rather, Divine Providence brought me to America to start rebuilding
Judaism." He refused to go to sleep that night until he was assured
that the yeshivah would open as he wished. The following day,
Tomchei T'mimim Lubavitch Yeshivah in Brooklyn opened with ten
students.

* * *

The Previous Rebbe wrote and spoke at great length about the
process of education and the momentous task that is bestowed upon
teachers.

In "The Principles of Guidance and Education," the Previous Rebbe
describes the process of introspection and refinement that an
educator must undergo in order to properly guide his/her students.
He also explains how a teacher must carefully examine each
individual pupil's character and tailor his/her teaching style
to best educate the student with both love and firmness.

Contrary to the old saying that "those who can, do, and those
who can't, teach," the Rebbe shows us that only a person with a
truly fine, exceptional character can properly carry out the
task of teaching the next generation.

The Rebbe explains that the arrival of the Previous Rebbe on
our shores marked the beginning of the primary efforts to spread
Chasidus and Judaism to the outer reaches of the world at large.

We should intensify our efforts to carry out the service begun
on the 9th of Adar II, 5700/1940, namely, to spread the light of
Torah to the entire world, until the Redemption comes and this
world is revealed as G-d's dwelling.

********************************
* PURIM MESSAGE FROM THE REBBE *
********************************

Dear Friend,

On the festival of Purim, when we all listen carefully to the
reading of the Megillah and ponder upon the story it tells us, let
us all remember a few important details and facts that took place
in those days at this time:

There arose a Haman, who issued a decree to murder and destroy
all Jews at a fixed date.

Queen Esther then calls upon Mordechai to "gather all the Jews
and fast" and then she would go and plead with the King to rescind
the terrible decree.

Mordechai thereupon goes and gathers tens of thousands of Jewish
children and teaches them the Torah; he teaches them the procedure
of offering the Omer when the Bet-Hamikdosh would be rebuilt.

All the children are so enchanted by the new spirit that
Mordechai had inculcated into them, that even facing the danger of
death, they exclaim: We stick with Mordechai and the Torah -- for
life or death!

In that very same day the decree becomes null and void. Haman's
downfall is already assured and the Jews are saved, even though
they learn of it only after a number of months.

The experience of our fathers is a lesson to us all.

Let us remember that one of the chief means of frustrating the
Hamans of our time, bring about their downfall and bring light and
joy to our people is:

TO GATHER JEWISH CHILDREN AND TEACH THEM TORAH AND YIDDISHKEIT!

To tell them that the true and complete redemption really lies
in our own hands, for as soon as we Jews return to G-d in complete
repentance -- we are redeemed immediately, by our Righteous
Messiah.

To tell them further, that our Holy Bet-HaMikdosh will be
rebuilt soon, and we must all be worthy and prepared to serve our
G-d in the Holy Sanctuary.

On the day when the Jewish children are imbued with this spirit,
and are ready to exclaim -- "We remain with thee, our Torah, for
life or death" -- on that very day, our Torah assures us, all the
Hamans will be defeated, and all Jews will have 'light, gladness,
joy and respect,' speedily in our time.

Wishing you a Happy Purim,
Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson

****************************************
* YOUR PURIM GUIDE *
* 14 Adar, 5781 / February 25-26, 2021 *
****************************************

THE HISTORY OF PURIM

Danger in Exile

Jewish morale was at an all-time low. The Temple in Jerusalem
had been destroyed, the nation conquered, and for almost 70 years,
had been dispersed in foreign lands. The prophesied end of Exile
had not materialized, and the blight of assimilation had set in.

Just then, the enemy arose to carry out his evil plans. This
time it was Haman. Descended from the Jew-hating tribe of Amalek,
Haman devised his scheme to solve "the Jewish problem" once and for
all, by annihilating every Jew, men, women and children, throughout
the world, in a single day.

Rallying the Jews

And it almost worked, were it not for Mordechai. A descendent of
King Shaul, and advisor to King Achashverosh, Mordechai sensed the
danger. Donning sackcloth and ashes, he went to the gate of the
palace, crying aloud, rallying the Jews to return to Torah.

His niece, Queen Esther, called for him. He told her that she
must go to the King and plead for her people. Officially in
disfavor, she feared to go, but saw that she had no choice. She
undertook a three-day fast of penitence, and called upon the whole
Jewish people to do likewise. Then she went to the King . . .

Victory

It is a story of great courage and self-sacrifice -- first and
foremost by Queen Esther and Mordechai, and ultimately by the whole
Jewish nation. For throughout the duration of the whole year, not
one single Jew chose to convert, even to save his life. The nation
was awakened to a whole-hearted return to Torah and mitzvot, and
throughout the year strengthened their faith and observance.

And in the merit of this, they were able to rise up against
their enemies and destroy them, on the 13th of Adar, the very day
destined for the "final solution."

The Jewish people had shown their true character. They had
earned the right to leave Exile, to return to the Holy Land, and
rebuild the Temple.

As it was in those days, so may it be with us today. Each year
in fulfilling the special mitzvot of the Purim festival, we
reaffirm our commitment to the eternal values of the Torah . . .
and we share in the very same merit that redeemed the Jewish people
in the days of Mordechai and Esther.

***********************************
* PURIM - THEN AND NOW *
* Based on the Works of the Rebbe *
***********************************

Remembered and Reenacted

One of the Purim mitzvot is the reading of the Megillah -- the
Scroll of Esther, in which the miracle of Purim is recounted. The
Talmud tells us that "whoever reads the Megillah backwards does not
fulfill his obligation." Our Sages explain that "backwards" does
not only mean in reverse order; it also means that whoever reads
the Megillah merely as ancient history has missed the point.

The Purim story is directly relevant to our contemporary world.
As the Megillah itself tells us, that when we celebrate Purim each
year, the miraculous events of Purim are "remembered and reenacted"
in our lives.

Haman, Then and Now

One does not have to look far to find Haman's modern-day heirs.
Now, as then, there are evil schemers who seek to scapegoat the
Jewish people and -- Heaven forfend -- to erase us from the face of
the earth. Each time they rise up to destroy us, their schemes are
foiled by the miraculous Hand of G-d.

The most striking example in recent times was the Persian Gulf
War that ended victoriously on Purim, 5751/1991.

From Redemption to Redemption

Throughout our history, we have seen miracles. Despite centuries
upon centuries of persecution, we have survived and flourished, by
the Grace of G-d.

Yet we have remained in exile for nearly 2,000 years, hoping and
praying for the final and complete Redemption -- the Redemption
that will end suffering and exile forever.

May the observance of Purim be a precursor to the coming of
Moshiach, our Righteous Redeemer, whose imminent arrival will bring
about a better life for all the nations of the world.

*******************
* JOY & HAPPINESS *
*******************

Every generation has its Mordechai. In our generation, the Rebbe
has taught some deep things about joy and Purim. Have a taste:

1. Explosive Joy

Joy is an overflowing, an explosion. Something enters a person's
life for which he could never be prepared and his previously tidy
self erupts in song, dance and joy.

Approach the Divine with a calculated mind and there is no
window for joy. Embrace the infinite beyond mind and let joy
surprise you.

2. G-d with the Oppressed

Visit the prisoners and bring them some happiness. Even if they
are guilty. Even if, in your eyes, they deserve whatever misery
they have. Bring them joy.

G-d is always with the oppressed. Even if the oppressor is
righteous and the oppressed is wicked, our sages tell us, G-d is
with the oppressed.

3. Fear of Joy

People are afraid of joy. They are afraid they'll get out of
hand and lose control.

These people haven't experienced real joy -- the joy that comes
from doing something G-dly and beautiful with all your heart. The
fact is, there is nothing that will lift you higher. Where there is
that joy, the Divine Presence can enter. Where there is that joy,
there are no pits to fall into, and all obstacles evaporate into
thin air.

4. Joy Unleashed

There are many kinds of barriers: Those from within and those
from without. Barriers between people. Barriers that prevent you
from doing good things. Barriers of your own mind and your own
hesitations. There are the barriers that exist simply because you
are a limited being. Joy breaks through all barriers.

5. The Highest

True happiness is the highest form of self-sacrifice. There, in
that state, there is no sense of self -- not even awareness that
you are happy. True happiness is somewhere beyond "knowing." Beyond
self. All the more so when you bring joy to others.

************************
* THE MITZVOT OF PURIM *
************************

Purim is the festival that commemorates the breathtaking victory
over the murderous designs of Haman. Observed on the 14th of Adar,
this joyous festival reveals the hidden Hand of G-d in the events
of man.

It is a day to be celebrated by the entire family -- not only
adults and boys and girls past bar/bat mitzvah, but youngsters
too should be encouraged to fulfill the mitzvot of Purim.

Listen to the Megillah

To relive the miraculous events of Purim, we listen to the
reading of the Megillah (the Scroll of Esther) on Thursday night,
February 25, and again on Friday, February 26, during the daytime.

When Haman's name is mentioned, we twirl graggers and stamp our
feet to "drown out" his evil name. Tell the children Purim is the
only time when it's a mitzvah to make noise!

Send Gifts of Food

On Purim we emphasize the importance of Jewish unity and
friendship by sending gifts of food to friends. Send a gift of
at least two kinds of ready-to-eat foods (for example, pastry,
fruit, beverage), to at least one friend on Friday, February 26,
during the daytime.

It is proper that men send to men and women to women. Sending
these gifts should be done through a third party. Children, in
addition to sending their own gifts of food, make enthusiastic
messengers.

Give Gifts to the Needy

Concern for the needy is a year-round responsibility for the Jew.
On Purim, particularly, it is a special mitzvah to remember the poor.
Give charity to at least two, but preferably more, needy individuals
on Friday, February 26, during the daytime.

The mitzvah is best fulfilled by giving directly to the needy. If,
however, you cannot find poor people, place at least several coins
into pushkas (charity boxes). Even small children should fulfill
this mitzvah.

Eat the Festive Meal

As on all festivals, we celebrate Purim with a special festive
meal on Friday, February 26, during the morning, when family and
friends gather together to rejoice in the Purim spirit.

********************************************
* THIS YEAR PURIM ENDS ON FRIDAY AFTERNOON *
********************************************

Since this year Purim ends right before the Shabbat, on Friday,
February 26, in the afternoon, we are especially careful to avoid
any violations of the sanctity of the Shabbat.

The Purim festive meal is eaten in the morning -- so that we
will have a hearty appetite for the traditional Friday evening
Shabbat meal. The other mitzvot of Purim are completed early
enough on Friday afternoon to allow for the proper preparation
for the Shabbat.

******************************
* OTHER OBSERVANCES OF PURIM *
******************************

The Fast of Esther

To commemorate the day of prayer and fasting that the Jews
held before their victory, we fast before Purim, on Thursday,
February 25, from approximately 72 minutes before sunrise until
40 minutes after sunset.[1]

Machatzit Hashekel

It is a tradition to give 3 half-dollar coins to charity to
commemorate the half-shekel given by each Jew in the time of
the Holy Temple.

This mitzvah, usually performed in the synagogue, should be
done on Thursday, February 25, or Friday, February 26, according
to your custom.

Special Prayers

On Purim we recite the V'Al HaNissim liturgy in the Amidah
(Silent Prayer) for evening, morning and afternoon, as well as
in the Grace After Meals.

In the morning service there is a special reading from the
Torah Scroll in the synagogue.
_______________
1. In New York City, the fast ends at 6:12 p.m.

*****************
* SHUSHAN PURIM *
*****************

The Jews of Persia celebrated their victory over Haman and their
other enemies on Adar 14. The Jews of the capital city of Shushan
-- a walled city -- however, had a longer battle, waging war on the
13th and 14th of Adar. They therefore celebrated on the 15th.

To honor the Land of Israel, our Sages ordained that any city in
Israel that had been surrounded by a wall -- like Shushan -- during
the times of Joshua would also celebrate Purim on Adar 15. Thus,
the 15th of Adar II became known as Shushan Purim.

Jerusalem is the only city in Israel where Purim is celebrated
on Adar 15.

***********************
* HAMENTASCHEN RECIPE *
***********************

Hamentaschen, a traditional Purim delight, is a three-cornered
pastry filled with mohn (poppy seed) or other sweet filling.

1 cup sugar
1/3 cup oil
1/2 cup margarine
3 eggs
4 cups flour
1/2 cup orange juice
3 tsps. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 egg, beaten
2 lbs. mohn filling

Cream sugar, oil and margarine. Add eggs and juice and mix well.
Blend with dry ingredients and roll into a ball. Divide into four
parts. Roll out each piece very thin (approximately 1/8 inch) on a
floured board. With the rim of a cup or glass (depending on desired
size), cut into the dough to make circles. Place 1/2 to 2/3
teaspoon of filling in the middle of each circle.

To shape into triangle, lift up right and left sides, leaving
the bottom side down, and bring both sides to meet at center, above
the filling. Lift bottom side up to center to meet other two sides.

Preheat oven to 350o. Brush dough with beaten egg before baking.
Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350o for approximately 20
minutes.

Yields 4 dozen Hamentaschen.

*****************************
* ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS PURIM *
*****************************

Purim is such a great holiday.

Children and adults alike love to celebrate Purim with the
exciting and unusual mitzvot and customs of the day. Dressing up,
eating hamentaschen for dessert at the Purim meal (do you like
prune, poppy seed, raspberry or apricot?), twirling the gragger at
Haman's name in the Megillah, and giving shalach manot -- food
gifts to friends. These are the reasons why the young of age and
the young at heart look forward to Purim each year.

Did you ever stop to think what the Purim mitzvot and customs
have in common? Let's take off the masks, open up the shalach
manot, look inside the Megillah -- peel the layers off of
everything -- and see the common denominator intrinsic to all of
them.

When someone is dressed up in a costume or mask, his identity is
concealed. Rich or poor, smart or average, pretty or homely, we no
longer perceive the physical, economic, or intellectual differences
that often separate us. Yes, one costume is expensive, another more
original, and there are hundreds of Queen Esthers. But it's obvious
that these are just externals. The customes are not the person
inside. On a very basic level, when we dress up on Purim our
superficial differences are, for the moment, concealed.

The Megillah, that exciting story recounting the triumph of
right over might, good over evil, and the Jews' faith in G-d over
the vile schemes of Haman, is also a lesson in Jewish equality and
unity. For, it was only once the Jews united, that they were saved
from Haman's plan of total annihilation. Men, women and children,
scholars and shoe cobblers, peasants and the Queen all fasted and
prayed as one for three days and nights to avert the evil decree.
And because they united, because each one felt equally responsible
and able to effect a change, their prayers and penitence were
accepted.

Now, on to those delicious hamentaschen of varying fillings and
recipes. Some say they are meant to remind us of Haman's hat or his
ears. But they are also symbolic of that which is hidden within.
G-d's Hand, so to speak, was hidden during the whole Purim episode
-- the incidents that led up to Esther being crowned queen,
Mordechai overhearing the palace guards' plot to kill Achashverosh,
etc., seemed quite natural. But they were -- like everything in
life -- Divine Providence, G-d's way of putting together an
intricate puzzle.

Just as the filling is concealed in the hamentaschen and the
Divine was hidden during the Purim epoch of Jewish history, the
Divine within each one of us is hidden -- very often to others and
often even to ourselves. The Divine within each of us is our soul
-- the actual part of G-d that gives us life. And though it is
intangible, though its existence is often concealed, the soul is
the great equalizer of all of us. For, though one Jew might do more
mitzvot than another, or have a more comprehensive Jewish
education, or be kinder or gentler, the essence of our souls and
their source are the same -- an actual part of G-d.

Lastly, we have the shalach manot, those delightful packages of
goodies. They range from a sandwich bag with raisins, cookies and a
drink to a three-foot-high wicker basket filled with aged-wine and
elegant treats. There are numerous differences in packaging, price
and products, but, once again, all shalach manot have one thing in
common: they foster unity. Unity not just because we feel good when
we give and when we receive. But unity also because we customarily
give the shalach manot through a messenger -- we involve another
person in the mitzvah. When giving the shalach manot we connect not
only with the person to whom we are giving, but to a third person
as well. And the messenger can be anyone -- young or old, friend or
stranger, male or female.

This Purim in particular is a special time to participate in the
mitzvot of Purim or to enhance our observance of them. For, as the
Rebbe explained, the Redemption is imminent and each act of
kindness, every deed, any additional mitzvah, helps us better
prepare ourselves for that era which is unfolding before our very
eyes.

**************************************
* TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! *
**************************************

The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of
Jewish life.

It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays,
even fasting on Yom Kippur.

Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together
in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life.

The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do
to protect life. See what you can do:

1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew.

2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class.

3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION.

4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house.

5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday.

6) Give CHARITY.

7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them.

8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and
girls.

9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD.

10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY.

In addition the Rebbe urges that:

Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written
for them in a SEFER TORAH.*

Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah --
Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos.

Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our
redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for
Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness,
and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May
we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now!
_______________
*. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish
people and protect Jewish life.

Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your
Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to:
"Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 6084000,
Israel, or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org

********************
* A CALL TO ACTION *
********************

The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We
therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we
can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption.

Increase In Joy!

This joy will be increased by our fulfillment of the special
directives for the month of Adar, to help our fellow Jews in both
spiritual and material affairs: to teach a new Torah concept that
they had not previously known (or to reveal additional depth in a
concept with which they were already familiar), and to afford them
material assistance. Fulfilling these directives will increase
their happiness and thus, increase G-d's happiness, as it were.

Celebrate Purim:

The Rebbe has called on every Jew to observe the mitzvot of
Purim: hearing the Megillah read, giving charity, eating a festive
meal, sending gifts of food to friends and reciting the V'Al
HaNissim prayer.

In addition, the Rebbe asked that everyone take part in
spreading the awareness of the mitzvot of Purim. "There should
not be a single Jew in a far-off corner of the world who does
not have the opportunity to fulfill all the mitzvot of Purim."

Please Note:

Since this year Purim ends right before the Shabbat, on Friday,
February 26, in the afternoon, we are especially careful to avoid
any violations of the sanctity of the Shabbat.

The Purim festive meal is eaten in the morning -- so that we
will have a hearty appetite for the traditional Friday evening
Shabbat meal. The other mitzvot of Purim are completed early
enough on Friday afternoon to allow for the proper preparation
for the Shabbat.

***************************************
* In loving memory of *
* HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN *
* Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua *
* Marlow *
* head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical *
* Court) of Crown Heights, *
* Passed away, on Friday Morning, *
* 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
***************************************

***************
* HaPpY PuRiM *
***************

May this Most Joyous of Jewish Festivals
Bring Joy to You
and All Your Loved Ones...

May the Miracle of Purim be Reenacted in Your Life,
Your Family's Life and in All Our Lives...

And May We Rejoice Together in the Culmination
of the Miracle of Purim --
the Imminent Arrival of Moshiach,
and a Better World for All Humankind.

*******************************
* THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR *
*******************************

** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES **

*******************************************************
* FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: *
* consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* or: *
* http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos *
* *
* FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: *
* contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* *
* FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: *
* http://www.chabad.org *
*******************************************************

>>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<<

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT TETZAVE:
* Purim.
* Light Shabbat Candles, [2] by 5:26 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 27, SHABBAT PARSHAT TETZAVE:
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 6:26 p.m.
_______________
2. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset.
IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO
LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*********************************************
* May the Shabbat candles, of the millions *
* of Jewish women and girls around the *
* world, illuminate our way, until we very *
* soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise *
* (as it is written in the Midrash *
* (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): *
* "If you will observe the kindling of the *
* Shabbat lights, you will merit to see *
* the lights of the redemption of the *
* Jewish people," speedily in our days, *
* NOW! *
*********************************************

***************************************
* "LET THERE BE LIGHT" *
* - The Jewish Women's Guide *
* to Lighting Shabbat Candles *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm *
***************************************

***********************************
* LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING *
* FOR THE BLIND *
***********************************

Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.*

* A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat
candle(s) with a blessing.

* If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER
HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING.

* If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who
are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles,
she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE
BLESSING.

* (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light
the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's
blessing.)
_______________
*. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights.

************************************
* SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING *
************************************

* First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the
candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times
to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then
cover your eyes and recite the following blessing:

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU
LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH.

Translation:

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments, and
commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.

* Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights.

* The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for
praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily
acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this
great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles.

CAUTION:
The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS
PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE
CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*******************************************
* MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm *
*******************************************

******************************************
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* http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm *
******************************************

********************************
* LIVING WITH MOSHIACH *
* Weekly Digest About Moshiach *
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= End of Text: Living With Moshiach, =
= Parshat Tetzave - Your Purim Guide - 5781 =
==============================================

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