A little Purim fun!

The staff of Beth Tzedec got into the Purim spirit a little early this year, and the shenanigans were captured on video.

The festival of Purim is celebrated every year on the 14th of Adar (late winter/early spring). It commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia from Haman’s plot “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day.”

In the 4th century BCE, the Persian empire extended over 127 lands and all the Jews were its subjects. When the King had his wife executed, he orchestrated a beauty pageant to find a new queen. A Jewish girl, Esther, became the new queen, but did not divulge her nationality.

Meanwhile, the anti-Semitic Haman was appointed prime minister of the empire. Mordechai, the leader of the Jews (and Esther’s cousin) refused to bow to Haman. Haman was incensed, and convinced the king to issue a decree ordering the extermination of all the Jews on the 13th of Adar. 

Mordechai galvanized all the Jews, convincing them to repent, fast and pray to God. Meanwhile, Esther revealed to the king her Jewish identity. Haman was hanged, Mordechai was appointed prime minister in his stead, and a new decree was issued—granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies.

On the 13th of Adar, the Jews mobilized and killed many of their enemies. On the 14th of Adar, they rested and celebrated.

We observe Purim by reading the megillah (book of Esther), which recounts the story of the Purim miracle, giving money gifts to the poor, sending gifts of food to friends and with a festive Purim feast. It is also customary for children to dress up in disguising costumes.

Join Us

In Tractate Baba Ghanoush, it says one has not truly experienced Purim until one has celebrated it at Beth Tzedec. On Purim evening we have a full reading of Megillat Esther. The fun continues on Purim day with morning services and a full Megillah reading. Kids of all ages are invited to enjoy the Beth Tzedec Purim Carnival featuring booths, prizes, hamantashen, and of course, Lorne's favourite - bouncy castles, and much more.