The Power of Megillah Reading on Purim: Why One Moment Can Change a Lifetime

Rabbi Yoel of Satmar taught that “it is worthwhile for a person to live seventy years in this world, enduring hardships and trials, all in order to hear the reading of the Megillah just once in a lifetime.” Why is this so? What is so unique about the reading of the Megillah?

1. The Renewal of Divine Mercy
The author of Darkei Moshe explains that when the verses of the Megillah are read, the flow of Divine compassion that was awakened for the Jewish people in those days is renewed each year. Therefore, when we read the verse, “For the Jews there was light and joy and gladness and honor,” these blessings of light, joy, gladness, and honor are again bestowed upon the Jewish people.

2. Hidden Prayers Within the Megillah
This is also the reason that after the Megillah reading we recite Kaddish Titkabel. The entire reading of the Megillah contains hidden prayers and supplications woven into its verses. When we say this Kaddish, we ask God to accept our prayers with favor.

3. A Time of Renewal and Acceptance
Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev wrote profound teachings about the moment of the Megillah reading: a person’s heart should become inspired while hearing the Megillah, intending to accept anew the yoke of Torah and mitzvot. One should prepare oneself as if the past is behind him, and from this moment forward he commits fully to God’s service. He further explains that Purim is comparable to Yom Kippur, a day when God forgives and pardons the Jewish people. Therefore, one should feel genuine regret for the past and make a sincere commitment for the future. During the Megillah reading, God pours spiritual purity upon a person, making it a fitting time to resolve not to return to wrongdoing.

4. Blessings in Physical Life
According to Tiferet Shlomo, the Megillah reading brings abundant blessing not only spiritually but also materially. A person may merit blessing in areas such as children, life, health, and livelihood.