Have you ever felt a surge of excitement at the start of a new project, only to find that enthusiasm slowly cools and fades?
Or set out on a meaningful initiative in your business or family life, and just as things begin to move forward, a small seed of doubt creeps in and brings everything to a halt?
In Jewish thought, these are described as “Amalek moments.”
This Shabbat in Shule, we will take out a second Torah to read the story of how the nation of Amalek, attacked the Jewish people shortly after the Exodus from Egypt. Our sages explain that this was not just a physical attack, but a spiritual one, an attempt to cool the passion and inspiration the people felt after experiencing open miracles.
The name Amalek carries the same numerical value (gematria) as the Hebrew word _safek_, doubt. Amalek represents that inner voice that questions, cools, and desensitises us to what is holy and meaningful.
While we all face challenges and negative thoughts, the most destructive of all is doubt, the quiet force that drains our excitement, blurs our purpose, and distances us from our spiritual fire.
Thankfully there is an antidote to Amalek.
Purim!
On Purim, we celebrate the triumph over Haman, a descendant of Amalek.
On Purim we reflect and internalise the extraordinary courage of Queen Esther, who entered the king’s throne room with clarity, mission, and unwavering faith. She pushed aside the paralysing “what ifs” What if I fail? What will people say? How will I be perceived? and acted with purpose and conviction. The victory of Purpose and clarity, over self-doubt.
That is why Purim is so joyous.
It is not only a celebration of a historic victory, but a living reminder that we can overcome the doubts that try slow us down and eventually bring our plans to a halt.
This Purim, let’s celebrate with abundant joy. Let’s focus on our ambitions, and move forward with confidence and faith, transforming moments of doubt into moments of courage and growth.
Let’s defeat our inner Amalek and embrace our missions with passion and joy.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Zalman & Esty
