Understanding Parshat Zachor
Parshat Zachor is the second in a series of four special Torah readings (including Shekalim, Parah, and HaChodesh) that supplement our annual cycle. While most weekly portions have no obvious link to the calendar, these four are deeply connected to the time of year. Specifically, Parshat Zachor is read on the Shabbat preceding Purim.
The reading consists of just three verses from Deuteronomy (25:17–19). It commands us to remember how Amalek brazenly attacked the vulnerable—the elderly and the sick—after the Jewish people left Egypt. Because Haman was a descendant of Amalek, we read this portion right before Purim to connect the ancient battle against evil with our holiday victory.
Synagogue Procedures and Respect for the Community
Whenever the liturgy requires reading from two different sections of the Torah, the Sages instituted the use of two separate scrolls. This is done specifically to avoid tircha de-tzibbura (unnecessary burden on the congregation). Rolling a single scroll from one section to another takes time, and making the community wait is considered disrespectful. To ensure a seamless transition:
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Two scrolls are removed from the Ark simultaneously.
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The second scroll is prepared and rolled to the correct spot beforehand.
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The first scroll is used for the seven standard aliyahs of the weekly portion (e.g., Parshat Tzav).
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Half-Kaddish is recited over both scrolls to mark the transition before reading the Maftir (the eighth aliyah) from the second scroll.
A Biblical Obligation
While most Torah readings are rabbinic institutions established by Moses and the Great Assembly, many codifiers rule that hearing Parshat Zachor in public is a biblical command (Mitzvah de-Oraita). We are commanded to "Remember what Amalek did," and the reading of this portion is the formal fulfillment of that mitzvah.
Because of its high spiritual status, it is a widespread tradition for women to attend synagogue specifically to hear this reading. Furthermore, while we normally allow a katan (a minor) to read the Maftir, many are careful that an adult reads Parshat Zachor to ensure everyone fulfills their biblical obligation.
Traditions and Nuances
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Pronunciation: There is a famous doubt regarding the word "remembrance"—is it Ze-cher or Ze-char? To fulfill all opinions, the reader typically repeats the verse using both pronunciations.
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Eating Before Mitzvahs: Generally, one should not eat a meal before performing a major mitzvah (like Shofar or Lulav). However, because Parshat Zachor takes place during the morning service, Chabad tradition allows for light sustenance (like coffee or a snack) to ensure one has the energy to pray with proper kavanah (intention).
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The Haftarah: We read a special Haftarah from Samuel I (Chapter 15), describing King Saul’s battle against the Amalekites. The message is clear: obedience to the Divine command is "better than the best offering."
If a congregation mistakenly forgets Parshat Zachor and reads the regular portion instead, they must take out the Torah again to read the correct verses and fulfill this essential mitzvah.