The Jewish Month of Adar: Joy, Divine Connection, and Good Fortune

Adar is a pivotal month in the Hebrew calendar that carries profound spiritual energy and historical depth. It is the sixth month when counting from Tishrei and the twelfth when counting from Nissan. Adar always contains 29 days, but in leap years, it appears twice, once as Adar I and once as Adar II, adding an extra dimension of spiritual opportunity.

The zodiac sign of Adar is Pisces, symbolized by a fish. This association is not coincidental; fish are abundant during this period, which is symbolic of growth, protection, and hidden blessings. In Jewish tradition, the people of Israel are likened to fish in water, and just as water represents Torah, Adar reflects an increase in Divine vitality and spiritual fortune.

The Unique Qualities of Adar

Adar stands out in the Jewish year as a time of closeness to Hashem, inner joy, and good fortune for the nation of Israel.

Drawing Closer to the Divine

The Shem MiShmuel highlights Adar as a spiritually significant time. He explains that while Nissan is the month of redemption and renewed effort, Adar is when Hashem awakens the hearts of the Jewish people, even those who have been spiritually dormant. This awakening prepares them for the redemptive energy of Nissan. As he writes: “Nissan is a time for renewed dedication… therefore, in the preceding month of Adar, the heavens strengthen Israel's hearts with courage, holiness, and spiritual exaltation” (Shem MiShmuel, Vayakhel 1919).

Joy That Transcends Challenges

The Mishnah famously states: “When Adar begins, joy increases.” Rashi explains that this joy arises from the many miracles performed for Israel during this month. Adar teaches us that the Divine presence can be felt even in times of exile and hardship. It invites us to embrace adversity with joy, recognizing it as a hidden path to closeness with Hashem.

Good Fortune for Israel

This joyous energy brings with it a unique mazal (good fortune) for the Jewish people. The Sages advised scheduling court cases with non-Jews during Adar, as the month’s spiritual energy favors Israel. In Adar, even challenging moments can be transformed into opportunities for victory and blessing.

Special Events in Adar

Adar is rich with commemorative dates that deepen its meaning:

• In the times of the Temple, Adar 1 was the day when the Beit Din (Jewish court) would remind the people to donate the half-shekel that was used for communal sacrifices and Temple maintenance. Today, many give a symbolic half-shekel to charity from the beginning of Adar, though many have the practice to give it on the Fast of Esther.

• Adar 7 is the day that Moshe, the first leader of the Jewish people, was both born and died. 

• Adar 13, the Fast of Esther, is a day of fasting and heartfelt prayers for both communal and individual salvation.

• Adar 14 and 15 are the days of Purim. While most cities celebrate on the 14th, cities that were walled during Joshua’s time (like Jerusalem, Acre, and Jaffa) observe Purim on the 15th

Special Blessings in Adar

It is customary to recite Psalm 22, attributed to Queen Esther, on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of Adar. This psalm captures Esther's courage and faith as she stood before King Ahasuerus and embodies the spiritual power of Adar.

Purim itself is filled with spiritual potency. In fact, it is especially proper and worthy to study Torah on this day, when many others are distracted by the festivities. Studying Torah on Purim is a source of personal blessing, especially for individuals who are praying for children. It also weakens the spiritual force of Amalek.

Moreover, those who study Torah between the evening and morning readings of the Megillah are promised a share in the World to Come. The day of Purim is considered to be as holy as the day the Torah was given, and many communities have the custom of staying up all night to learn.

The Chida even wrote that if people truly immersed themselves in Torah study on Purim, redemption would surely follow.

Conclusion

Adar is far more than just preparation for Purim or a month of added joy. It is a sacred portal to spiritual growth, Divine connection, and national fortune. Whether through charity, prayer, or Torah learning, every Jew can access the unique blessings of this extraordinary time. As Adar begins , joy increases, and with it, so does the potential for renewal, redemption, and revelation.