By: Lower School Judaic Studies Principal, Rivkie Gottlieb
Ki Tisa, the 13 Middot HaRachamim, the 13 Principles of Faith, and the Hidden Mercy of Purim
Parshat Ki Tisa is one of the most powerful parshiyot in the Torah, as it contains the dramatic episode of the Chet HaEgel (the sin of the Golden Calf), Moshe’s desperate pleas on behalf of Bnei Yisrael, and the revelation of the 13 Middot HaRachamim—Hashem’s attributes of mercy. It is a parsha that teaches us about sin, repentance, and, ultimately, the unwavering presence of Hashem’s mercy, even in the darkest moments.
At the heart of this parsha is a profound message: even when we stray, Hashem remains with us. This theme connects deeply to the 13 Principles of Faith and also to Purim, where Hashem’s presence is hidden but ever-present.
When Bnei Yisrael committed the sin of the Golden Calf, it seemed like their relationship with Hashem was shattered. However, instead of rejecting them completely, Hashem revealed the 13 Middot HaRachamim to Moshe (Shemot 34:6-7), showing that His mercy is infinite and that teshuvah is always possible.
This revelation teaches us that even in moments of despair, Hashem does not abandon us—He provides a way back. The 13 Attributes are recited in Selichot and on Yom Kippur because they are a formula for reconnecting with Hashem when we feel distant.
Rambam’s 13 Ani Ma’amin statements outline the foundation of Jewish belief—faith in Hashem, in the Torah, and in divine justice. One of the most challenging principles is believing in Hashem’s involvement in the world even when we don’t see Him clearly.
This connects deeply to Ki Tisa:
- When Moshe did not return after 40 days, Bnei Yisrael panicked—they felt lost without visible leadership.
- But true faith means believing that Hashem is with us even when we cannot see Him directly.
- Hashem revealed His 13 Attributes as a response—showing that He is compassionate even when hidden.
This brings us to Purim, a holiday where Hashem’s name does not appear in the Megillah, yet His presence is felt in every event—perhaps hinting at the feeling that the Jewish people of the time held, a feeling of distance from Hashem.
The connection between Ki Tisa, the 13 Middot HaRachamim, the 13 Principles of Faith, and Purim is the lesson that Hashem’s presence and mercy are constant—even when hidden.
- The 13 Middot HaRachamim teach us that Hashem’s love is always available.
- The 13 Principles of Faith remind us to trust in Hashem, even when He seems distant.
- Purim shows us that even when Hashem’s name is absent, His guiding hand is behind the scenes, ensuring our survival and redemption.
Just as Moshe pleaded for Hashem’s mercy after the Chet HaEgel, Esther and Mordechai led the Jewish people in teshuvah before their salvation. Both moments remind us that even in times of failure or uncertainty, Hashem is there—guiding us back, offering forgiveness, and ensuring our future.
May we internalize these messages and strengthen our faith, recognizing Hashem’s mercy in every aspect of our lives, whether revealed or hidden.
Purim Sameach and Shabbat Shalom!