February 26, 2021 – Purim

Dear Scouts,

I hope you are having a happy Purim. Here’s a Purim Derech Tsofeh from a few years ago – one of my favorites, written with my son Jordan.

When you heard the Megillah, did you notice that its characters exemplify the twelve points of the Scout Law?

Trustworthy – The Jewish people kept Esther’s Jewish identity a secret, as she requested, so she would not be rejected by the royal court.

Loyal – Mordechai was loyal to God by not bowing down to Haman, who wore an idol to try and force the Jews into idol worship when they bowed to him.

Helpful – Hasach, one of the King’s chamberlains, went beyond his duties to assist Esther and Mordechai exchange information about Haman’s plans against the Jews.

Friendly – Charbonah, who is remembered for good, one of the King’s chamberlains, told the King that Haman was part of a plot to kill the King and now wanted to hang Mordechai.

Courteous – King Ahaseurus did not force the guests at his banquet to drink from the large ceremonial cup, which some people did not want to do.

Kind – Hegai, the chamberlain of the royal palace of the women, was kind to Esther.

Obedient – Esther followed the advice and orders of her uncle, Mordechai.

Cheerful – Mordechai, who saves the King’s life by disclosing a plot to kill him, asks for no reward and does not complain when it comes long after his good deed.

Thrifty – Esther, in preparing to meet the King, could have had any clothing or cosmetics she wanted, but only used what Hegai, the King’s chamberlain, had suggested.

Brave – Esther, who must appear before the King without being invited and is thus subject to the death penalty, goes willingly to save the Jewish people. Knowing that her actions may bring her death, she says only, “And if I perish, I perish.”

Clean – Mordechai is a very virtuous man.

Reverent – Mordechai and Esther act out of their desire to serve God and protect the Jewish people.

Chag sameach and Shabbat shalom,

Nelson