The Jewish holiday of Purim, which begins on the evening of March 2, 2024, serves as both a celebration of joy and a reminder of the ongoing fight against antisemitism. This year, the festivities extend into March 3 in Israel, where the holiday is particularly vibrant. As the story of Purim unfolds, it emphasizes the importance of courage and resilience in the face of hatred.
The month of Adar in the Hebrew calendar is synonymous with joy, culminating in the events of Purim. This holiday commemorates the story of Queen Esther, who rose to prominence in the Persian Empire of the 4th century BCE. Under the rule of King Ahasuerus, Esther, a Jewish woman, became queen without disclosing her heritage. Her cousin, Mordechai, challenged the empire’s prime minister, Haman, who plotted to exterminate the Jewish population. Through her bravery, Esther ultimately persuaded King Ahasuerus to save her people, leading to Haman’s downfall.
The significance of Purim lies not only in the narrative of salvation but also in its customs. The Book of Esther, known as the megillah, is read aloud, and attendees express their disdain for Haman by making noise whenever his name is mentioned. This ritual embodies the broader call to eradicate antisemitism and all forms of hatred.
As Sue Winthrop, a resident of Longmont, reflects on her childhood experiences of Purim, she recalls the festive atmosphere filled with costumes, food, and community spirit. Traditional treats like Hamantaschen, three-cornered cookies symbolizing Haman’s hat, are enjoyed during celebrations, reinforcing the holiday’s joyful nature.
Yet, Winthrop emphasizes that the holiday’s message extends beyond celebration. She connects the story of Esther to contemporary issues, particularly the treatment of marginalized communities. Reflecting on current political climates, she expresses deep concern over the actions of the U.S. administration, particularly regarding deportation policies. Winthrop’s lineage as a descendant of immigrants adds personal weight to her call for compassion and justice.
The actions of Stephen Miller, a key architect of the current administration’s immigration policies, have particularly troubled Winthrop. Despite coming from a Jewish background, Miller’s advocacy for stringent immigration controls is viewed as a betrayal of the values she cherishes. Winthrop questions who in leadership will rise to challenge these harmful practices, akin to Esther’s courageous stand against tyranny.
The essence of Purim, according to Winthrop, is not just to celebrate survival but to inspire action against injustice. She calls for collective efforts to combat hatred through peaceful protest, civic engagement, and open dialogue. The spirit of Purim can be a powerful motivator for those seeking to foster a more inclusive society.
As the celebration of Purim approaches, it serves as a vital reminder of the importance of courage in confronting hatred. The holiday encourages individuals to reflect on their roles in society and to stand against any form of discrimination or prejudice. In a world still grappling with issues of hatred and intolerance, the lessons of Purim remain more relevant than ever.
