The Jewish celebration of Purim commemorates the deliverance and protection of the Jewish minority in ancient Persia from their enemy Haman through the intervention of the Jewish heroine, Queen Esther.   (See the book of Esther in the Bible)  Although God’s name is not mentioned in this historical account, it is implied that Esther prayed during a three day fast.  “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa and fast for me.  Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day.  I and my maids will fast as you do.  When this done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law.  And if I perish, I perish.”  (Esther 4:16)

Here is a prayer appropriate for Purim or for any occasion of good fortune where God’s divine help is hidden yet nevertheless at work.

Prayer of Thankfulness for God’s Unseen Divine Intervention

Dear God of Israel, although Your name may not be spoken out loud in all of the fortunate turn of events in our lives, we thank you that even when You choose to remain unseen You are the driving force behind all of our blessings.  Even though the world may choose not to label good fortune as divine intervention, we rejoice that the eyes of our hearts can see that You have heard our prayers, that You have come to our aid and that You have acted on our behalf.

We thank You for the release and deliverance You send us from our physical and mental oppression.  We are in awe of Your great power to save individuals and nations.  Accept this prayer as our act of joy and thanksgiving for all of Your bounty.  May many rejoice with us as we celebrate Your everlasting covenant with us declaring that You are our God and we are your people.  May there be much heavenly joy and laughter!  Amen.

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Copyright Karen Barber 2012  All rights reserved