Laws and Customs of Megillah Reading
Insights from Shulchan Menachem, Siman 347 part 1
In this section, the Rebbe addresses several nuanced traditions regarding the reading of Megillas Esther, clarifying the practice of the Rebbes and the reasoning behind unique Chabad customs.
Folding the Megillah like a Letter
The Shulchan Aruch records the custom of the reader folding the Megillah into three parts (like a letter/dispatch) before the reading begins. The Sefer HaMinhagim notes that in Chabad, even those listening who have a kosher Megillah in front of them should also fold theirs into three.
The Rebbe offers a fascinating reason for this: While some commentaries suggest only the public reader needs to fold it, many authorities (like the Pri Megadim) encourage individuals to follow along in their own kosher Megillah and whisper the words quietly. This ensures that even if noise in the synagogue prevents them from hearing a word, they have fulfilled their obligation through their own reading. The Rebbe suggests that since the individual is effectively performing their own "reading," they must follow all the laws of the reader—including the symbolic folding of the parchment.
"Banging" Haman
While some authorities oppose the custom of making noise when Haman’s name is mentioned because it might cause listeners to miss a word, Chabad maintains the tradition. The Rebbe recalls seeing the Previous Rebbe "bang" with his foot on the ground. However, this is not done at every mention of Haman’s name; it is specifically reserved for when his name is accompanied by a title or description, such as "Haman Ha-Agagi" (the Agagite) or "Haman Ha-Ra" (the Wicked).
Doubling Doubtful Words
There are certain words in the Megillah where the exact textual tradition (Masorah) is debated—specifically whether to add a "vav" (u-le-abeid vs. ve-le-harog) or whether to use a "beit" or "lamed" (bifneihem vs. lifneihem). Chabad tradition is to read both versions of these phrases to ensure the obligation is met according to all views.
The Rebbe defends this practice by noting it was recorded in the Ha-Yom Yom, a calendar of customs that the Previous Rebbe personally reviewed and approved. Even if there were earlier reports that the Previous Rebbe didn't always do this, the Rebbe considers the published instruction in Ha-Yom Yom to be the final word (Mishna Acharona). The Rebbe shares a personal story of reading the Megillah for the Previous Rebbe and repeating these words; although the Previous Rebbe could not speak during the reading, his expression clearly conveyed his satisfaction with that approach.
The Blessing of "Ha-Rav Es Riveinu"
A common question arises regarding the blessing recited after the Megillah reading: Does it require a minyan? Many sources suggest omitting it when reading privately at home. However, the Rebbe rules that the blessing is recited even without a minyan. He bases this on his own firsthand testimony: "I saw my father-in-law [the Previous Rebbe] do so; he made the blessing, and I saw it myself."