This week, we have the only Biblical obligation to read from the Torah. It is a special portion speaking about the remembrance of Amalek, connecting us to Haman, one of the main characters of the Megilla, who was a descendant of Amalek.

What is so special about this parsha?

The Torah writes (Deuteronomy 25:17) “Remember what Amalek did to you, on the way, when you were leaving Egypt.”

The idea of remembering is so vital to the existence of the Jewish nation that this is the only time that we have a Biblical obligation to listen to the Torah! Remembering connects us to our past. By doing so, we ensure that there will be a continuity to the Jewish people. It gives us a purpose and a reason to live.

When I think about my past, there are a couple of words that come to my mind: simplicity and faith.

I still have a vivid memory of my grandparents Nissim and Rachel Abecassis, who lived their lives in such a pure way, far away from politics or from the limelight. Everything was done for the sake of Heaven. My grandfather, z”l, went to synagogue every morning. He did it with such love and devotion that, without realizing it, he impacted his family and surroundings positively.

The faith that my grandmother had was beyond comprehension. She often raised her eyes to the heavens and prayed sincerely for the sake of am Israel.

These images are stuck in my mind and assist me in the way I conduct myself and live my life.

I believe that this lesson is even more relevant in our day and age where unfortunately the Jewish nation is going through so much turmoil and numerous scandals.

Let us all get back to live our Judaism in an unpretentious way and connect to our past.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim.

By Rabbi Ilan Acoca

 Rabbi Acoca is the spiritual leader of the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee.