Drinking on Purim is based on a Talmudic statement that it is a mitzvah to enjoy and celebrate on Purim. It is not a mitzvah to drink so much that we act in a non G-dly manner. However, we do drink more than usual on Purim. This is based on a number of reasons, such as the idea that “the wine is drunk, the secrets are revealed” and since Purim is all about the inner aspects of our love for Judaism and G-d being revealed, we drink more wine than usual.
Why Do We Drink on Purim?
About Rabbi Lawrence
Originally from London, England, Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff graduated from Manchester University with honors in political science. After working for MTV in news production and winning the national Jewish Stand-Up Comedian of the Year competition, Rabbi Lawrence traveled to Israel to study and then to Monsey, New York, to receive his rabbinical smicha ordination. He is educational director of Birthright Israel Alumni in Manhattan, New York and a full-time faculty member of Stern College for Women at Yeshiva University. Rabbi Lawrence is the author of Will Jew Marry Me? and Jew Got Questions? He lives in Wesley Hills with his wife, Anita, and their five children.
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