Purim is a Jewish holiday that marks the saving of the Jews from Haman of the Persian empire, who was planning on persecuting the Jewish people. The Book of Esther tells the Purim narrative, and is customarily read in synagogues on the day of the holiday. The holiday takes place on the 14th day of Adar. During Purim, it is customary to dress up, exchange gifts of food and drink known as "mishloach manot," donate to charity, and eat a celebratory meal known as "sudat purim."
In uncertain times, rabbis provide guidance, connection, and resilience—helping Jewish communities navigate chaos, identity, and moral challenges.
It’s time to stop making excuses. It’s time to remove the costumes. And most importantly, it’s time to stand with the victims of abuse.
As we celebrate Purim this year, we should embrace both the joy and the responsibility that come with it.
Purim joy comes early as Beit Issie Shapiro visits the President’s Residence with children and families.
ALEH’s campus in Bnei Brak was transformed into a lively airport terminal, where children dressed as pilots and flight attendants for a day of imagination.
Jews and their state are portrayed in the most vicious light, ignoring both the ongoing existential threats that Israel faces and its readiness to live in peace and prosperity with its Arab citizens.
The unique Purim traditions of Cochini Jews have slowly faded from memory following their arrival in Israel and integration with the wider Jewish community.
Purim’s costumes hold a deeper lesson—seeing beyond disguises to the true essence of people, just as in the Megillah.
The tradition shows no signs of letting up as municipalities up and down the country gear up for some outdoor urban frolics.
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