No Smoking Allowed – Even on Purim

The Phenomeno

An unfortunate Purim “custom” of smoking regular or e-cigarettes has taken root among some young Bnei Torah. This is perceived to be part of the Purim celebration or as an accessory to costumes, granting it temporary social approval. Although this phenomenon is mostly limited to Purim itself, it presents a real danger, as experimentation can lead to long-term addiction and habitual smoking. Many young Bnei Torah who had never considered smoking and were aware of its harms have nevertheless fallen into addiction due to a single Purim cigarette.

Causes of the Phenomenon

On Purim, young Bnei Torah often travel in groups, visiting homes to collect Tzedaka or to visit Rabbanim. In many of these homes and among these groups, smoking cigarettes is seen as part of Simchas Purim and accompanies drinking (as it may enhance or accelerate intoxication). As a result, young people may face numerous temptations throughout Purim to try just one cigarette.

Additionally, Purim brings a sense of freedom and lack of boundaries. The general atmosphere is one of Simcha, even if it is not genuine. Costumes, parties, and drinking create the impression that anything is permissible, including smoking.

As mentioned, spending extended time in a group during Purim – especially while drinking, dancing, etc. – creates peer pressure. Many young people feel pressured to imitate their peers or older boys or to avoid appearing weak or fearful. Smoking a cigarette, especially in a social setting, can sometimes be seen as a symbol of maturity or of being “in the know.”

Another common excuse is that great Torah scholars of the past smoked, at a time when the dangers of smoking were not yet known. Additionally, some frivolous sayings suggest that smoking on Purim has some kind of merit.

Spiritual and Physical Harm

• Risk of Addiction: Many young people who smoke a single cigarette on Purim continue smoking and develop a long-term addiction.
• Health Hazards: Cigarettes contain nicotine and carcinogenic substances that harm the airway, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Electronic cigarettes are not safe either, as they contain toxic chemicals in addition to addictive substances.
• Bitul Torah: Smoking takes away valuable time from Torah learning and other productive activities. The time spent seeking out cigarettes and smoking them accumulates into hours of wasted time. (Additionally, one must consider the financial costs of purchasing cigarettes, which over time becomes an enormous expense.)
• Spiritual Damage and Negative Influence: Smoking to impress others often has the opposite effect; instead of upholding their principles and values, individuals have succumbed to social pressure. This can undermine an essential internal barrier against temptation, resulting in further moral or spiritual decline.

Should We Rebuke them or Ignore It?

The Poskim have ruled that there is a duty to rebuke smokers throughout the year, including on Purim. One who refrains violates the Torah commandment: “You shall surely rebuke your fellow and not bear sin because of him” (Vayikra 19:17) (Sefer Halacha, Chelek Ches – Dinei Chanukah u’Purim^[1], p269).

Even earlier Poskim who did not prohibit smoking would concede that the Rambam’s ruling (Hilchos De’os 6:7) that the obligation to rebuke applies not only to someone committing an outright transgression but also to one engaging in improper behavior.

However, Chaza”l also say, “Just as it is a Mitzva to say something that will be heard, so is it a mitzvah (or duty) not to say something that will not be heard” (Yevamos 65b). Therefore, rebuke should be given graciously and in a tone and manner that encourages the personto accept and internalize the message. One must also carefully consider whether to strictly forbid young people from smoking or to allow them the autonomy to make an independent decision while conveying that they are trusted – and expected – not to succumb to temptation.

What Can We Do as Parents and Educators?

• Open and Respectful Dialogue: Parents should communicate with their children about the dangers of smoking in an honest and non-judgmental manner, acknowledging the peer pressure that exists on Purim. Clear explanations of the health and spiritual harms can serve as a deterrent.
• Emphasizing Values and the Right Choices: It is essential to focus on the importance of personal choice and standing firm against peer pressure. Education in Torah values, health awareness, and self-respect serves as a vital tool in combating smoking. Furthermore, parents and educators should acknowledge the pressures that arise on Purim while highlighting that resisting the temptation to smoke will lead to greater respect and admiration from others. To reinforce this message, they could offer incentives for those who withstand peer pressure. (It is worth noting that smoking will eventually cost far more than any immediate reward, and once addicted, quitting is difficult even with incentives.)
• Setting a Personal Example: Parents and educators who do not smoke, even on Purim, demonstrate that true joy does not arise from harmful behaviors. They serve as role models for the young generation.

Conclusion

Purim is a time for true joy, Kabalas haTorah me’Ahava, and maintaining spiritual purity. Smoking on Purim does not enhance joy but diminishes it – both physically and spiritually. As parents and educators, we must take proactive and wise steps to eliminate this phenomenon and restore Purim joy to its proper place – a celebration that is healthy, holy, and meaningful.

May we merit to celebrate Purim with genuine joy and in good health – both physically and spiritually!

[1] R’ Naftali Hoffner