Purim: Revealing Our Hidden Selves
This week’s Torah portion, Tetzaveh, deals with G-d giving specific instsructions on how the High Priest’s clothing is to be made. Given the nature and criticality of this work, God wanted the clothing to be made by: “…the wise-hearted people whom I have invested with… wisdom.” (Exodus 28:3)
Wisdom is a gift from Hashem and a privilege. To those of us who have been privileged as military leaders, whether at the squad or military-wide level, this means using our wisdom to the fullest extent to safeguard our Soldiers, families and country. What a very special role we play in accomplishing Tikun Olam (improvement of the world).
Additionally, using our wisdom to create the clothing or outer garments is a heavy responsibility. As leaders, whether military or religious, we are imbued with the job of ensuring that we create an outer persona or clothing (appearance and behavior) among our troops or congregants that is consistent with that which is on the inside (belief, faith, value system). In other words, let’s ensure that we are actualizing Military values and Mitzvot in our every day actions. Certainly as leaders we must strive to always exemplify that which we espouse. And, of course, we must hold others accountable for behavior founded on military values and Mitzvot.
How? Through one-on-one counseling; by always making on-the-spot corrections; through retraining/re-teaching just to name a few ways.
This need for consistency of inner self and outer self is brought to light especially now during the week in which we celebrate Purim. This is the week in which we contemplate the hidden and the revealed. The inner self and the outer self.
It’s important to remember that were it not for Queen Esther having revealed her inner self to the outer world, we would not be celebrating as Jews. The attempt by Haman to annihilate Jews off the face of the earth was once again thwarted. This time, by a woman who rather than continue to hide her true self her Jewish self publicly conveyed that she was Jewish. In doing so, she started a process that saved the community.
How do we as Jews do this on a daily basis? Do we hide our true selves and reveal ourselves only on special occasions and among certain people? If the answer is yes, then, why?
In the world today, It’s no wonder that Judaism is dwindling and that other world religions are flourishing. They are out there! Vocal, visible, actively engaged with an undeniable pride and presence.
This Purim, consider your Jewish presence in the world. Consider removing your mask. Reveal the beauty of Judaism to any and all. Only in this way will we fulfill our role as Priests unto the nations of the world.
Some Suggestions:
- Wear a Kippah while in uniform (supported by DODD 1300.17)
- Schedule Cultural Diversity classes through your EO rep and provide information about upcoming commemorative events or holidays
- Get involved in Holocaust Remembrance activities/committees
- Become an active member of your local Synagogue or Jewish Education program
- Become a Lay Leader
- Volunteer to speak or read at religious events or college courses
Friendly Safety Reminder: Don’t Drink and Drive this Purim. Have a Safe and Happy Celebration!