Tag Archives: Queen Esther

Jerusalem’s Unique Purim Celebration: A Blend of Festivity and Tradition

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Every year, as the 14th day of Adar draws near, the air in Jerusalem begins to hum with anticipation. There’s something magical about how this ancient city transforms for Purim with its winding cobblestone streets and modern energy—a celebration that’s as much about community and tradition as it is about joy and festivity.

Purim in Jerusalem isn’t just any celebration; it’s unique. While most of the world marks Purim on the 14th of Adar, Jerusalem—a city steeped in history and designated as a “walled city” in sacred texts—celebrates it a day later. This year, on March 6 and 7, I found myself once again swept up in the vibrant spirit that pulses through the streets during this time.

To outsiders, Purim might look like a blend of Mardi Gras and Halloween, with its colourful costumes and lively parades. But for those of us who have grown up with these traditions, Purim is so much more. It’s a holiday that, while filled with laughter and light, also carries deep spiritual significance.

The streets are alive with the sights and sounds of celebration—children darting around in costumes, friends exchanging Shalach Manot (those delightful food gifts), and families gathering for the seudah, the festive meal that caps off the day. Yet, for me, the most profound part of Purim is the reading of the Megillah, the ancient text that recounts the story of Queen Esther.

This year, I returned to Simhat Shlomo, my former Yeshiva nestled in the heart of Nahlaot, a neighbourhood teeming with life next to Jerusalem’s famous Shuk. Walking through the bustling market, where vendors sell everything from Purim masks to hamantaschen, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of connection. The joy in the air was palpable, even in the most unexpected places—like the cell phone store I popped into, where the infectious Purim spirit had even taken over the staff!

The evening Megillah reading at Simhat Shlomo was nothing short of magical. Rabbi Leibish Hundert’s voice carried through the room, each word of the Megillah resonating with history and meaning. I was surrounded by a diverse crowd—men, women, children—all united in anticipation. It was a moment that felt timeless and deeply personal as if we were all part of something bigger than ourselves.

As I recorded snippets of the reading, I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of sharing these moments later, hoping to capture what makes Purim in Jerusalem so special. The Yeshiva was filled with lively conversation and spontaneous bursts of song, a reminder that Purim isn’t just about the past—it’s about the here and now, the connections we forge and the joy we share.

Later that afternoon, I joined my nephew, niece, and other family members for a Purim feast that felt like coming home. We laughed, told stories, and indulged in the traditional foods that have been part of our family’s Purim celebrations for as long as I can remember. There’s something about sharing a meal with loved ones on Purim that makes the holiday’s message of unity and joy come alive.

Looking back on this year’s celebration, I’m reminded why I love Purim in Jerusalem. It’s a celebration that weaves together the old and the new, the sacred and the joyful, in a uniquely Jerusalem way. Whether it’s the Megillah readings that echo through the city or the colourful costumes that bring smiles to everyone’s faces, Purim in Jerusalem is a reminder of the power of tradition and the joy of community.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into the lessons Purim can teach us today, I invite you to check out my earlier post, “What Purim Can Teach Us Today.”

Iran’s Growing Threat: Purim’s Lessons for Israel and Global Security

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During an event organized by the Canadian Institute for Jewish Research (CIJR), a group of experts gathered to discuss how Iran’s growing power is affecting Israel’s safety and the situation in the Middle East. The experts noted that many countries already feel the effects of Iran’s activities, highlighting how important it is for nations to work together to confront this challenge.

Speakers such as Professors Frederick Krantz, Harold Waller, and Norrin Ripsman discussed key challenges facing the Middle East today, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions, ongoing regional conflicts, and the geopolitical changes that followed the “Arab Spring.” The main focus of the discussions was Israel’s security, but the wider implications of Iran’s influence, which stretches around the globe and affects overall stability, couldn’t be ignored. Rabbi Yonah Rosner shared some interesting thoughts, connecting the Jewish holiday of Purim to today’s challenges and reminding us how those ancient stories still resonate with our current situation.

Rabbi Rosner compared ideas from Jewish tradition to help explain these issues. This Purim story recalls a time when the Jewish people were at great risk in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran). On Purim, Jews reflect on the bravery of Queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai, who stepped up to protect their people from harm. While this story is a vital part of Jewish history, its message resonates with everyone: the importance of standing up against injustice and oppression. Rabbi Rosner emphasized the need to remember these pivotal moments in history. This is important not just for Jews but for anyone who values what history teaches us. He pointed out similarities between the threats faced by Jews in ancient Persia and the dangers we see in modern-day Iran. He reminded us that staying aware of real threats to peace and security is essential.

The Purim story isn’t only about the Jewish experience—it’s a reminder for all of us of how vital unity and action are during tough times. Throughout history, people have faced challenges that called for them to unite and make quick decisions. Professor Krantz pointed out the important role of Israel’s leaders, especially Prime Minister Netanyahu, in protecting their citizens and Jewish people worldwide. Like Queen Esther’s call for unity, the meeting stressed the need for countries to work together to solve our shared security problems.

Rabbi Rosner pointed out something important about the Purim story—there’s no direct divine intervention. It’s about people stepping up, showing courage, and leading. This lesson goes beyond religion; throughout history, people have faced challenging situations by being resilient and determined rather than waiting for miracles. It reminds us of the responsibility both leaders and everyday people have when it comes to standing up in the face of danger.

In addition to these serious reflections, the Purim tradition brings a sense of lightness and joy. Jews worldwide read the Megillah (the scroll telling the story of Esther) and participate in playful theatrical performances called Purim spiels. One Yiddish saying, “Man plans and God laughs,” captures the irony and unpredictability of life—a theme that can resonate with people from all walks of life. We may not always control the world’s events, but we can choose how we respond to them.

The meeting’s discussion became even more timely as President Obama prepared to address the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) the following day. Strong leadership came up repeatedly, especially with the focus on global security and the threat from Iran. Some speakers compared today’s leaders to King Achashverosh from the Purim story. They pointed out that his indecision put his people in danger. This comparison shows us the importance of clear leadership when we face today’s geopolitical challenges.

As we think about Iran’s role in global security, the key lessons from the Purim story—unity, vigilance, and leadership—are still important for everyone, no matter their background. By learning from past and present threats, we can work together to create a safer and more stable future for all.

Wishing everyone a safe and thoughtful Purim.