Displaying 1 - 10 of 20
Cakes and Miracles: A Purim Tale
Even though Hershel can no longer see, he remembers what things looked like before he lost his sight - and creates beautiful shapes from his mother’s hamentashen dough. His cookies earn him a compliment and a possible future job from the town baker.
11 Things to Know About a M'gillah Reading
Purim, a Jewish holiday in late winter, celebrates Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai and how they saved the Jews of Persia from an extermination plot by Haman, the king’s vizier. Central to the observance is a public reading – usually in the synagogue – of the Book of Esther (M’gillat Esther, the M’gillah), which tells the story of the holiday.
It's OK Not to Drink on Purim - and the Rest of Us Should Be Respectful of That
We're forbidden from pressuring other people to drink. On Purim and otherwise, what, exactly, can we do to respect those boundaries?
Esther and Vashti: Strong Women with Modern Problems
While I don’t have much experience studying Torah or examining each week’s parsha, I try to pay special attention to the stories that I loved as a child.
A Jewish Response to Political Scandal
As we witness public figures dismantled by the revelation of ugly episodes from their pasts, we parents must distill these events and their aftermath for our children.
Hester Street: A Poem
Inspired by this week’s Torah portion, this poem plays on the idea of hester panim (the hidden face of God) and the name Esther, a key figure in the holiday of Purim.
Creative Ideas for Mishloach Manot (Purim Gift Baskets)
Traditionally, mishloach manot (the traditional sending of food on Purim) are two food items (from different food groups) sent to at least two friends. On the hunt for creative ideas? Here are a few ideas to try.
Make Your Own Grogger (Noisemaker) for Purim
No m’gillah reading is complete without groggers! They're easy and fun to make at home.
Celebrate a More Eco-Friendly Purim
Purim is a festival of joy and celebration but unfortunately one of a lot of waste, too. There are many ways that we can enjoy our holiday in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Leket Israel, Israel's National Food Bank and leading food rescue network, recommends the following tips for a more eco-friendly Purim.
Purim Social Action Guide
Here are a few simple ways to give matanot l’evyonim (gifts to the poor) on Purim, and some other ways to to honor the social justice themes of the holiday.