Purim and Pesach seem almost to be diametrically opposed to each other. The jovial atmosphere on Purim, the rather informal nature of the Purim seudah, and the wide array of mishloach manos appear to stand in stark contrast with the strict food-related prohibitions we adhere to on Pesach and the very solemn atmosphere of the Pesach Seder. But a deeper look reveals that they are actually bound together by a hidden but critical thread. It is this connection that stands at the very heart of the essence of each of these lofty Yamim Tovim.

1

Just thirty days separate Purim from Pesach, but there appears to be an inherent connection between these two Yamim Tovim that extends beyond their calendrical proximity. The Gemara in Taanis (29a) tells us, “Mishenichnas Adar marbin b’simchah — when Adar arrives we should increase our happiness.” Rashi explains the reason for the intensified joy of Adar — “Yemei nissim hayu l’Yisrael, Purim u’Pesach — they are days of miracles for the Jewish People, Purim and Pesach.”

Rashi is telling us that the miracles experienced in both the Purim and Pesach stories are the reason for the halachah mandating higher levels of simchah during the month of Adar. The question, though, is obvious. How is Pesach, which falls out in Nissan, a cause for joy in Adar? We see that Pesach and Purim must somehow be interconnected. But how?

2

Moving out of the theoretical realm, the connection between Purim and Pesach actually has halachic implications as well. We know that the halachah is that one should avoid engaging in litigation during the month of Av. Conversely, if one has an impending court case, he should try to arrange that it take place in Adar, a month of good fortune.