Purim and Yom Kippurim

Our Sages compare Purim to Yom Kippur, commenting, in a play on words that Yom Kippurim means “Yom K’Purim” (a day like Purim).

At first glance, the comment may seem like “Purim Torah”, however, in fact, our Sages convey a deep message.

Zohar comments that on Purim we achieve tikun (rectification) through enjoyment, while on Yom Kippur it is achieved through affliction.

Sfat Emet elaborates on Zohar’s comment and writes that on Yom Kippur, we have the ability to rise above nature and reach atonement through denial of our physical needs (eating and drinking) and afflicting ourselves. On Purim, we have the ability to achieve the same level through our use of feasting and merriment.

The Gaon of Vilna remarks that our Sages taught [Babylonian Talmud Beitza 15b; (Mishna Berura 529:1)] that the holidays are to be divided “half for you and half for God,” while Yom Kippur is to be devoted entirely to God. Purim, as a day of “feasting and joy” [Esther 9:17] is devoted entirely to us. As such, the Gaon suggests that Purim complements Yom Kippur.

Rabbi Kook noted that the approach represented by Purim, that is, using sensual factors to achieve a spiritual end, is the greater level. This perhaps is the reason Yom Kippur is compared to Purim and not vice versa.