No Disguises: Purim and Women’s Equality
Purim is a joyous holiday celebrating the story of the book of Esther and how she and her cousin Mordechai saved the Jewish community in Persia from persecution. I have fond memories of attending megillah readings at my synagogue and eating hamantaschen with my family.
The Woes of a Walled City: Observing Purim in a World of Pain
May the people of Belgium, when a sufficient time of grieving has passed, “enjoy light and gladness, happiness and honor,” like those of Persia long ago.
A Letter to the Jewish Community of Brussels
Upon receiving the news that the Jewish community in Brussels has canceled its Purim festivities in light of yesterday's tragic terror attacks, Reform/Progressive Jewish leadership shared the following letter of solidarity.
What Purim Can Teach Us about Anti-Semitism
Later this month, we will read and commemorate the story of Purim and celebrate Esther’s bravery with revelry and joy.
Purim 5776: Incorporating Social Justice into Your Celebrations
Without a doubt, Purim is one of my favorite Jewish holidays.
Lessons from Bad Segeberg after 80 Years
The faces in the photo that hangs in the new synagogue in Bad Segeberg haunt me. They seared themselves into my brain the first time I saw it, and they do not let go.
What were these 26 souls thinking when – in hiding – they celebrated Purim in 1936? Their eyes and their smiles betray fear, and their resolve to celebrate the festival with joy.