Purim

Is Purim about the hidden and the revealed? About the solemn task of using power wisely? About communal celebration? About the rights of Jews and of women? A deadly serious grown-up holiday, or a fun and frivolous day of festivities for children? Purim is all of these. While costumes bring a light note to our reading of the Megillah (Scroll of Esther), our gifts to the poor and to each other echo the themes of community and mutual responsibility. On Purim, we hear the story of Esther, participate in a festival meal (se’udat mitzvah), give tzedakah, and give gifts to friends (mishloah manot). Drowning out Haman’s name is now joined by waving Esther and Vashti flags, to call attention to these women’s complex and important roles in the Purim tale.

 

Latest Rituals

An original midrash in word and art from Vashti’s perspective.
In this sketch, Vashti's ghost confronts the King.
This Purim ritual centers on Queen Esther’s strengths and characteristics.
a hand holds a candle
A teaching about how G-d/Shekhinah is present in the Purim story through Her human partners, Queens Vashti and Esther.
a Purim crown
“We need both light / And darkness / In order to grow”
black and white photo of woman dancing, arms in the air, head down. She is wearing sunglasses and has her hair up in buns.
“What had been hidden / Became revealed”
light skinned woman with short blondish hair standing at the shor with arms wide open and sun shining on her face
“There is always hope in Adar”
two people holding open a scroll of esther (megillah)
“It is by means of the dark / That the hidden light can finally be seen”
Parshat Tzav on Purim

Bringing mindfulness to the act of welcoming guests through a chant and series of ritual intentions

Eight Ritual Steps of Hakhnasat Orkhim (Welcoming Guests)

“Before we drink, we ponder”

On Purim: High and Higher

Iraqi Purim cookie recipe with video

Mizrahi Purim Treats

The Reconstructionist Network

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