Written by Talya Wiseman, Head of Jewish Life (High School)

This week, we come together to celebrate Purim, a holiday that falls in the middle of Adar—the month in which we are commanded to increase our happiness. We often describe the way that the Jewish calendar comes to life at Moriah, and there may be no better day that exemplifies this than Purim. Our school, staff and students will transform into costume on Friday, as classes are put on hold and the entire day is spent in the Purim spirit: sharing Mishloach Manot, eating lots of hamantaschen, hearing the Megillah, carnival rides, shows, and many other fun and exciting activities. It should be a very, very happy day.

What does it truly mean to be happy, though? As parents and educators, we hope to instil in our children qualities such as kindness, resilience, independence, and thoughtfulness. Often, more than anything, we want them to experience real happiness.

Yet, happiness is not always simple. Can we really be commanded to be happy in Adar and expect it to just happen? Life is a mix of emotions—joy and sadness can exist even within a single school day. Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l beautifully put it, “Happiness is a state of being, not a state of having, and still today, as it always did, it depends on strong and stable personal relationships and a sense of meaning and purpose in life.”

Purim teaches us that joy is deeply connected to meaning. The story of Esther is one of courage, faith, and unity. It reminds us that happiness is not just about fun and celebration, it’s also about purpose, connection, and gratitude. As we perform the mitzvot of Purim—listen to the Megillah, share Mishloach Manot, give to those in need, and enjoy festive meals—we engage in acts that strengthen our relationships and community; true sources of lasting joy.

May this Purim be a time of happiness—one that goes beyond celebration to embrace deeper meaning, kindness, and connection. May Am Yisrael continue to strengthen together and may we see all the remaining hostages returned safely and immediately.

Wishing you and your families a Chag Purim Sameach!