Tag
Esther
6 articles
Purim Costumes: Why We Dress Up and What to Wear
Every Purim, Jews around the world dress in costumes — children and adults alike. The tradition connects to themes of hidden identity, divine concealment, and the joyful reversal at the heart of the Purim story.
Jews of Iran: 2,700 Years of Persian Heritage
Iranian Jews are among the world's oldest diaspora communities, tracing their roots to the era of Cyrus the Great. From the story of Esther to life under the Islamic Republic, their journey is remarkable.
Queen Esther: Courage in Hiding
Esther — the Jewish queen who hid her identity in the Persian court and risked her life to save her people from genocide — is the heroine of the Purim story and one of the most compelling figures in the Bible.
The Book of Esther: Courage, Concealment, and Purim's Origin Story
The Book of Esther tells the dramatic story of a Jewish queen who saves her people from genocide — and never once mentions God's name. It is the origin story of Purim and one of the most theatrical books in the Bible.
Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Esther): A Day of Prayer Before Purim
The Fast of Esther is a minor fast day observed the day before Purim, commemorating Queen Esther's three-day fast before approaching the king to save the Jewish people.
Tractate Megillah: Purim Laws and the Power of the Scroll
Tractate Megillah governs the reading of the Book of Esther on Purim and the broader laws of Torah reading in synagogue — connecting celebration with sacred obligation.