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These ideals, and the mitzvos of 37

the day, are universal, but the

way in which we connect to

them must be personalized in

order for our Purim to be

meaningful. To do this, we need

to utilize our own unique

personality and strengths when

relating to and engaging

“in the spiritual work of Purim.
by Bracha Poliakoff

In addition to providing us with increased self-awareness in
general, this framework can also be helpful when considering
improved ways of connecting to the mitzvos and holiday of
Purim that are in congruence with our personality type and
strengths. Of course, as with any personality system, people may
not fit exactly into one “box” and can – and should! – learn from
and borrow from the positive aspects of the other traits as well.
Nevertheless, in order to feel energized emotionally and spiritu-
ally, it is best to start with the personality trait that we most nat-

”urally relate to.

Chesed
According to Rav Dessler, someone whose root character trait
and outlook is chesed “mainly focuses on others and how they
can improve things for them – or have an influence on their
lives.”

For the chesed personality, Purim offers many opportunities
for connection, as many of the mitzvos – such as mishloach
manos (sending food packages), seuda (the festive meal), and
matanos la’evyonim (gifts to the poor) – are of an interperson-

* The concept and translation of the three personality types are
based on Mrs. Batya Gallant’s powerful work, Stages of
Spiritual Growth: Resolving the Tension between Self-
Expression and Submission to Divine Will.

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