By Rabbi Danny Stein, Base UWS
Purim Katan
מִי שֶׁנִּכְנַס אֲדָר מַרְבִּין בְּשִׂמְחָה
Mi shenichnas Adar, Marbim b’Simcha
When the month of Adar enters, we increase our joy!
This song is commonly sung during the month of Adar. If you’re in the right spot, you may even see folks performing headstands while we sing! Adar is famous for its overwhelming joy, largely because of the excitement Purim brings in the middle of it. But every so often, we have TWO Adars in one year, referred to as Adar I and Adar II. When this occurs, such as this year of 5784, we celebrate Purim Katan (Little Purim) in Adar I. Most folks celebrate Purim Katan on the 14th of Adar I, and those living in walled cities (such as Jerusalem) celebrate on the 15th of Adar I.
Some authorities think we should eat a festive meal on Purim Katan, much like we do on the “real” Purim in Adar II. Others think this is unnecessary (Surprise, disagreements in Jewish law!). One Jewish legal authority believes that rejoicing in a festive meal on Purim Katan is necessary because it is an opportunity to serve God through joy. After all, serving God through joy is what it’s all about (Arukh HaShulkhan 672:2)!
Why wouldn’t we want to have an excuse to celebrate? We should always take advantage of opportunities to rejoice together as a community. Whether we buy the special lox, treat our office to coffee, or simply set aside time to eat together, may this Purim Katan be an excuse for each of us to share moments of joy with each other.
