Purim Meshulash

This year in Jerusalem, we celebrate Purim Meshulash or “Triple Purim”. When the 15^th of Adar falls on Shabbat, the days of Purim are spread over the course of three days, as opposed to two. In the story of Purim, Jews outside of the walled city of Shushan defeated their enemies on Adar 13^th and rested on Adar 14^th. In the city of Shushan, this defeat took an extra day, so Jews rested on Adar 15^th. This year, while we no longer reside in Shushan, the walled city of Jerusalem pays tribute to this extra day of fighting followed by resting. 

After this year, we will not see Purim Meshulash until the year 5805 – or 2045. While we are not commanded to celebrate Purim Meshulash outside of Jerusalem and walled cities, perhaps we can embrace an extra day of mitzvot in the spirit of Purim. During a difficult time in the Jewish community, we can embrace Mishloach Manot – giving gifts to family and friends in an additional way, with words of appreciation and support. An extra day of Matanot L’eyvonim, or donations to those in need, might be some volunteering in our communities, donating extra clothes or hygiene supplies to a local organization, or even giving a couple dollars of tzedakah to our favorite charities. Let’s embrace this rare chance to extend the spirit of Purim and take an extra day to reflect, connect, and give back.

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