This week we read Parshas Zachor which recounts the episode of when the wicked nation of Amalek attacked the Jewish People as we left Egpyt and proceeded on our way to receive the Torah. 

We find that before Amalek attacked the Jewish People asked "is Hashem among us or not", the commentators explain that this showed they lacked faith in Divine Providence which gave Amalek spiritual strength to attack. The Torah states that Amalek "happened" upon the Jewish People when they were on the way. The commentators explain that Amalek perpetuated the idea that things "happen" that there is no Divine Providence. This is the spiritual power of Amalek and the Torah states that they attacked the "weak people" people who were on a low spiritual level. 

On this Shabbos we remember what Amalek did and we read about our obligation to physically eradicate Amalek. Although we don't know who Amalek is today, we still have to work to eradicate the spiritual strength of Amalek. We can do that by contemplating that Hashem is with us at all times, that there is Divine Providence over the world and our lives. This is one of the messages that we can learn from the Megilah. Even though the Jewish People sinned by partaking in the feast of King Achashverosh and it seemed like all the cards were stacked against us, nevertheless Hashem didn't abandon us and brought about our salvation. 

May these words be a merit for the refuah shelaimah of Miriam bas Gittel. 

May we all experience the light and joy of Purim.

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath