Bowing on Purim

It was a weird moment for me. My 9 year old, in his Tae Kwan Do  uniform, was bowing down at the beginning of his martial arts class.  My son had asked me about it when the teacher introduced the practice. I explained that in context bowing for politeness is permitted according to Jewish law, and he has been happily doing it ever since.

But still, it felt uncomfortable to see. As we will read in the Megillah on Purim (Sat nite and Sunday), Mordechai refused to bow down to the evil Haman.  Symbolically, this teaches a world: Jews don’t bow to idols and have an aversion to bowing to anyone. Each human being is created in the image of G-d. Each of us is important.  Our people is important.  As individuals and as a people, we should and will do all we can to get along with those around us. But when push comes to shove, we stand up – straight! - for who we are.

As you celebrate the fun and cheer of Purim this year, remember one of the central messages of the holiday. Don’t forget who you are. Be proud of who  you are. Stand up for who you are.  And enjoy!

Happy Purim!

doron

'Keeping Our Families Jewish' is a free e-newsletter written by Doron Kornbluth, author of Raising Kids to LOVE Being Jewish. The newsletter is designed to help Jewish parents, grandparents, educators and activists keep Jewish identity strong. To join the list, or contact Doron directly, email doronkornbluth@gmail.com or visit www.doronkornbluth.com.