The Talmud (
Megillah 7b) cites Ravaâs opinion that one must become drunk on Purim to the point that one is unable to tell the difference between âcursed be Hamanâ and âblessed be Mordecai.â
But the same passage goes on to report that Rabba and Rav Zeira became so drunk on Purim that Rabba slaughtered Rav Zeira with a knife. The latter was revived only by a miracle. When Rabba invited Rav Zeira to a Purim celebration the following year, Rav Zeira wisely declined.
Some people read this passage but stop right after Ravaâs opinion. Others correctly read the entire passage and recognize that the anecdote is a blatant refutation of this position. The Talmudâs lesson is: Donât get drunk. Terrible things can happen if you do.