Silence is Not an Option

Imagine a queen, young and unassuming, suddenly confronted with the fate of an entire people resting on her shoulders. She has lived quietly, following the instructions of others, never stepping into the spotlight. But now, faced with the imminent destruction of her nation, she is forced to make a choice: remain silent and safe or risk everything to stand for her people.

This is the story of Esther, the heroine of the Purim narrative. According to Rabbi Aharon Lichtenstein, a towering figure in Jewish thought, the Megilla, the scroll recounting this saga, is not called Megillat Mordechai after the sage who guided her, nor Megillat HaYehudim after the Jewish people who were saved. It is called Megillat Esther, the scroll of Esther, because it is the story of her transformation—her journey from hidden anonymity to courageous leadership. Esther’s personal evolution holds a timeless message for us today: there comes a moment when each of us must decide whether we will stand up and take action or remain passive spectators to history.

Rabbi Lichtenstein deeply explores Esther’s transformation, noting that her greatness was not in her initial status but in her ability to rise to the moment. She began as a passive participant, obeying the orders of others, yet when the time came, she found the strength to lead, to fight, and to secure the survival of her people. Her story is a reminder that leadership is not about title or status—it is about taking responsibility.

Esther’s initial reluctance is understandable. She is an orphan, raised by her cousin Mordechai, and has been selected to be queen of Persia largely due to her beauty. She hides her Jewish identity and does not see herself as a leader. Even when the decree to annihilate the Jews is issued, she hesitates to act. She knows that approaching the king unbidden could mean death, and she has not been summoned for thirty days.

But Mordekhai’s response pierces her hesitation:

With these words, Esther realizes that her life is not about self-preservation—it is about purpose. She gathers the Jews of Shushan to fast and pray, and then she takes action, approaching King Ahasuerus despite the risk. Her strategic courage ultimately leads to the downfall of Haman and the salvation of her people.

Esther’s story is not just ancient history. It is a model for every generation. Too often, people hesitate to take action because they feel powerless or unqualified. They believe their voice does not matter, or that someone else will step up. But the lesson of Esther is clear: each of us has a unique role to play, and when the moment comes, we must be ready to act.

Today, the Jewish people face existential threats—from rising antisemitism to challenges against the very existence of Israel. In the wake of the horrors of October 7th, when Israel was brutally attacked, the need for strong leadership and decisive action has never been greater. We cannot afford to remain passive or assume that others will fight these battles for us.

The upcoming World Zionist Congress elections present a real and tangible opportunity to make a difference. This Congress determines how nearly $1 billion is allocated annually to support Israel and global Jewish communities. In this critical moment, every eligible Jewish voter in America has the chance to help shape the future of Israel and stand against those who seek to weaken her.

Esther could have remained hidden, content in the comfort of the palace. But she chose a different path—the path of leadership, of sacrifice, and of courage. That is why her name is forever inscribed in Jewish history.

Now, in our own time, the Jewish people face challenges that demand action. Just as Mordechai called upon Esther, we are being called upon today: Will we stand up when it matters most?

For those eligible to vote in the World Zionist Congress elections, this is not just a symbolic moment—it is a real opportunity to take part in shaping the future of Israel and the Jewish people. The time for silence has passed. Now is the time to act. Vote for Israel365 Action, (slate #7)! Make your voice heard.

And for those who cannot vote—do not think this exempts you from action. Speak out. Advocate. Support those who can vote. Educate your communities about the importance of standing with Israel. Whether through financial support, social activism, or simply spreading awareness, everyone has a role to play in securing the future of the Jewish people.

Because who knows? Perhaps for a time such as this, you were placed exactly where you are.