Displaying 1 - 10 of 16
Using the Purim Schpiel to Explore Jewish Identity
Luba Proger and Leonid Khanin are a husband-and-wife team who investigate Jewish identity through art. One of their recent projects, is a very non-traditional staging of the traditional Purim schpiel, or story, which celebrates the salvation of the Jews in ancient Persia thanks to the cleverness of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, who prevailed over the evil Haman, who planned to annihilate the Jews.
Celebrating Purim with Shalom Sesame: The Whole Megillah
Watch this Shalom Sesame video with your children to learn about the story of Purim, then try some of the fun discussion ideas and activities recommended by Reform Jewish educators.
Celebrating Purim with Shalom Sesame: Costumes
Together with your children, watch these Shalom Sesame videos to learn about how Purim is celebrated. Then try some of the discussion ideas and activities recommended by Reform Jewish educators to reinforce the lessons in the videos.
Celebrating Purim with Shalom Sesame: Baking Hamantaschen
Enjoy these Shalom Sesame videos with your children and follow up with engaging discussion ideas and activities.
Purim Superhero
Nate and his classmates are working on their Purim costumes. All the boys in his class are planning to wear superhero costumes, but Nate loves aliens and would like to dress as an alien. Reluctantly, Nate decides to dress like the other boys as a superhero -- until one of his dads reminds Nate of the Purim story.
Purim: Women's Rights and the Story of Esther
In 2023, Purim falls within days of International Women's Day. While Purim always provides an opportunity to reflect upon how Esther's story relates to women's rights, its proximity to International Women's Day this year reinforces the focus on women's rights that is present in both holidays.
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.
Create a M'gillah, Purim Puppets, and a Haman Piñata
Get involved with the megillah by making one, acting out the story with homemade puppets, and taking a whack at a villainous Haman piñata.