Purim marks one year since the COVID-19 pandemic changed our lives, bringing to mind the words of Megillat Esther, “Venahafoch Hu” – “and it was turned upside down.” On the day before Purim, the Fast of Esther offers an opportunity to reflect, pray, and commemorate this moment.
The fast marks a time when the Jewish people faced imminent danger by fasting, praying, and preparing for Esther to change their fates. One year since this pandemic began, we still have much to do together. We will mark the lives lost, ask for healing of the sick, and hope that in the coming year, the world will once again take a sharp turn – this time towards good.
