Exploring the Lunar Eclipse and Purim- with Rachel Schwartz

We are living in times of deep uncertainty. Since October 7th, 2023, the world has felt increasingly chaotic, with many feeling a lack of control over their reality. As we enter the month of Pisces and the festival of Purim, we are confronted with a powerful energy—one that can either pull us into victimhood or empower us to transcend fear and embrace trust in the unknown.

The Energy of Pisces and the Illusion of Reality

Pisces is a sign deeply connected to emotion, intuition, and totality. It is a month where boundaries dissolve, making us feel everything more intensely. This sensitivity can lead to a sense of confusion, as if we are being pulled into an ocean of emotions without solid ground. Yet, Pisces also carries the secret to overcoming fear: recognizing that the physical world is an illusion.

On Purim, we wear masks and celebrate the idea that things are not as they seem. The story of Esther and Mordechai teaches us that even when events appear dire—like the decree to annihilate the Jewish people—there is a higher plan at work. What seemed like the end was actually the beginning of redemption. This theme of hidden blessings is deeply connected to the cosmic shifts happening now, including the upcoming lunar eclipse.

The Eclipse and the Call for Certainty

This year, Purim coincides with a lunar eclipse in Virgo, the opposite sign of Pisces. Virgo seeks clarity, order, and logical understanding, while Pisces asks us to surrender and trust in the unknown. This eclipse is a divine push, asking us to let go of our need for control and instead embrace certainty—not certainty in outcomes, but in the Creator’s presence.

In Jewish thought, certainty (emunah) is the foundation of faith. It is the belief that even when we do not see the path, the path exists. Even when we do not understand the plan, there is a plan. The Baal Shem Tov taught that fear and doubt separate us from the Creator, while trust brings us closer.

Beyond Fear: The Power of Jewish Unity

Looking at historical cycles, we see a pattern: when Jews are threatened, they unite, and divine intervention follows. Haman’s decree was overturned not through political maneuvering but through the unity and spiritual work of the Jewish people. Today, we find ourselves facing global uncertainty, rising antisemitism, and external pressures, yet the solution remains the same—spiritual work, unity, and unwavering faith.

Instead of reacting with fear, we are called to ask: What is my role? How can I be a channel of light, peace, and divine presence in the world? Our power lies not in fighting the darkness but in bringing more light. This is the lesson of Purim—to transform what seems like destruction into redemption, what seems like chaos into divine order.

Living with Certainty in an Uncertain World

Many people struggle with the unknown, feeling the need to control their future, their safety, and their environment. This is especially true in Western cultures, where planning and structure are valued. Yet, those who have lived through major life transitions—whether birth, war, or unexpected challenges—know that true strength comes from surrendering to the process.

In Israel, there is a saying: “Bli metuchnan” (unplanned things happen). Life is a balance of effort and surrender, action and faith. We are meant to do our part—engage, show up, take responsibility—but also recognize that the greater picture is not always visible to us.

This Purim, we are reminded to “drink until we do not know the difference between Haman and Mordechai.” This does not mean to escape reality but to reach a level of spiritual consciousness where we understand that everything—both good and bad—comes from the same divine source. The separation between light and dark is an illusion. The pain of exile and the joy of redemption are two sides of the same coin.

A Call to Transcend

As we navigate these turbulent times, the real question is: How do we respond? Do we let fear dictate our actions, or do we elevate our consciousness above the illusion of physical reality?

The answer is found in trust. Trust that we are here for a purpose. Trust that we are divinely protected. Trust that every challenge is an opportunity for spiritual elevation.

This is the lesson of Pisces, the essence of Purim, and the message of the upcoming eclipse. It is a call to rise above fear, to embrace the unknown, and to walk forward with certainty—knowing that we are never alone.

May this Purim bring each of us clarity, joy, and the strength to see beyond the illusion and into the divine reality that guides our lives. Adelo yada—may we reach a state beyond knowing, where all that remains is trust in the One above.

Listen: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/episodes/Exploring-the-Lunar-Eclipse-and-Purim--with-Rachel-Schwartz-e303uvr