Recently, masks have been on my mind.  They became a significant part of our lives starting in 2020, during the pandemic.  There are differing opinions in how they are used by DHS agents.  I’m seeing Phantom of the Opera later this year.  And dressing up, including masks, is a major part of Purim.  It’s this last point that is at the forefront of my thoughts as I consider my own costume plans.

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While costumes are not a mitzvah in the Mishna or Talmud, they were prevalent enough to have mention in the  Shulkhan Arukh, a compilation of Halakha.

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As to the custom of wearing 'faces' on Purim, and men who wear women's dresses and women wearing men's attire - this is not forbidden, for they have no intention other than pure pleasure. (Shulchan Arukh, Orach Chaim – Siman 696.8)  

 

What is it that makes masks so special?  They allow a person to hide, physically, mentally, or metaphorically.  With escalated issues for Jews since October 7, 2023, out of abundant caution, many mask their identity in certain settings.  In Megillat Esther, Esther and Mordechai wear a mask in that vein, concealing their Jewish identity through most of the story.  A common midrash about a mask is interpreting the name Esther in Hebrew as aster, I will hide.  This refers to the one ‘character’ never named in the story, God.

 

Considering all of that, how is it that on Purim, the mask enhances our celebration?  Perhaps we wear the mask to make ourselves part of the story.  Or maybe because it’s one time where there is no spoiler alert; we know how the story will end, even as the narrative is building. By wearing a mask, even though our joy is obvious and over, we can hide that knowledge.  Celebrating the victory as a surprise makes it even sweeter.

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Whatever mask you choose for this 14th of Adar, may it add to your joy and enjoyment, while still allowing you to nosh some hamantaschen.