Purim commemorates the rescue of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Hebrew Bible’s Book of Esther. The story involves a Persian official named Haman, who seeks to exterminate the Jewish population of Persia. However, his plans are foiled by Esther, a Jewish queen, and her cousin Mordecai.

The story of Purim serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of antisemitism and the abuse of power. It highlights the risks of discrimination and prejudice and shows the devastating impact when these harmful mindsets influence those in power. The holiday is observed with readings of the Book of Esther, joyous gatherings, and charitable contributions, providing an opportunity to reflect on its deep moral and historical importance.

The Salvation of the Jews: How Mordechai and Esther Foiled Haman’s Plot in Ancient Persia

Haman, the second-in-command to King Ahasuerus of the Persian Empire, persuaded the king to issue a decree that would lead to the killing of all Jews living in the 127 lands of the Persian Empire. However, his evil plan was thwarted by Mordechai and Esther, whose courage and strategic actions saved their people. The entire story is recounted in the Megillah, or the Scroll of Esther, read annually in Jewish homes and synagogues worldwide.

“When Haman saw that Mordechai would neither kneel nor prostrate himself before him, Haman became full of wrath. But it seemed contemptible to him to lay hands on Mordechai alone, for they had told him Mordechai’s nationality, and Haman sought to destroy all the Jews who were throughout Ahasuerus’s entire kingdom, Mordechai’s people.”

Haman said to King Ahasuerus:

“There is a certain people scattered and separate among the peoples throughout all the provinces of your kingdom, and their laws differ from [those of] every people, and they do not keep the king’s laws; it is [therefore] of no use for the king to let them be. If it pleases the king, let it be written to destroy them, and I will weigh out ten thousand silver talents into the hands of those who perform the work to bring [it] into the king’s treasuries.”

The king took the ring off his hand, gave it to Haman, and said to him:

“The silver is given to you and the people to do to them as it pleases you.”

Understanding Prejudice: The Resilience and Targeting of the Jewish Community

Haman’s actions reflect a timeless pattern of targeting Jews based on lies and misconceptions—patterns that have persisted throughout history. Prejudice often stems from personal biases and assumptions rather than facts. Jews, known for coexisting with diverse civilizations for over two thousand years, have faced discrimination despite their commitment to societal laws and values, including respect for authority.

Many biases are based on stereotypes that inaccurately paint all group members with the same brush. This leads to harmful misconceptions, allowing prejudice to thrive. The Jewish community has been frequently targeted due to financial motives and misinformation, a narrative that echoes from Haman’s era to modern times.

Purim’s Universal Message Against Discrimination

While Purim specifically commemorates Jewish survival, its themes resonate universally. The story underscores resilience against persecution and serves as a narrative that mirrors the experiences of many minority groups, including Black people, Indigenous populations, immigrants, and other ethnic minorities. Discrimination’s destructive impact is a shared human experience, emphasizing the importance of confronting hatred in all its forms.

“You have got to be taught to hate and fear. You have got to be carefully taught.”

The Roots of Nazi Antisemitism and Modern Prejudice

Haman’s hatred found echoes in history, most notably in Nazi antisemitism. The Nazis falsely accused Jews of plotting against Germany, blaming them for the country’s defeat in World War I. Despite their service and sacrifice—100,000 Jews served in the German military during World War I—their loyalty was met with suspicion and violence.

Historical myths like the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, a fabricated text claiming Jewish control over global finances, have fueled dangerous stereotypes. These ideas have no basis in reality yet continue to influence modern antisemitic narratives. The consequences are seen in ongoing slanders against Jews, accusations against prominent figures, and baseless conspiracy theories about Jewish control.

Deborah Lipstadt, a scholar of genocide and the Holocaust, explains how antisemitism operates differently from other forms of racism:

“The racist ‘punches down’ and loathes persons of colour because they are apparently ‘lesser than’ the white person… In contrast, the antisemite’ punches up.’ The Jew is supposedly more powerful, ingenious, and financially adept than the non-Jew. Neither of these is true; they separate and isolate one group from the other.”

These historical patterns underline the persistent need to combat prejudice, not only against Jews but against all marginalized groups.

Lessons from the Megillah Text and the Joy of Purim Celebration

The Megillah offers insights into social dynamics and human behaviour, portraying characters with varied motivations and moralities. These timeless lessons continue to inspire us and remind us of the importance of standing up against discrimination.

Above all, Purim is a celebration of resilience. Today, we dress in costumes, exchange gifts, give to the poor, and come together in joy and solidarity. It is a day to reflect on our shared humanity and the enduring fight against hate.

The story of Mordechai and Esther reminds us of the ongoing threats of antisemitism and the abuse of power. As we celebrate Purim, let us commit to standing against all forms of injustice, ensuring that our communities remain strong and resilient in the face of adversity.

Happy Purim!