Purim

Time to celebrate Purim, the holiday of carnivals, costumes and hamantashen. The story behind the holiday also speaks to standing against antisemitism. On whatever level you’re looking to engage the Purim story, these Reconstructionist resources will enable a richer holiday experience. Now take out your groggers to drown out Haman’s name!

A Holiday of Opposites for an Upside-Down World

Rabbi Barbara Penzner writes that Purim is ultimately about the power of human beings to do what's right.

Read Rabbi Barbara Penzner's Essay

Purim's Best Kept Secret

Want the full Purim experience? Learn about the Purim, seudah, the festive meal, and see the festival in a new light.

Read Reb Ezra Weinberg's Essay

Against Haman, Antisemitism and Blueberry Bagels

Rabbi Seth Goldstein’s latest video gets us in the mindset for Purim, carries a poignant message and aims for a few laughs.

Watch Rabbi Seth Goldstein's Short Video

Yummy Mizrakhi Treats

Looking to add a little mizrakhi flavor to your Purim festivities? Traditional Iraqi treats sambusak and b’ab’a b’tamer symbolize how Queen Esther hides her Jewish identity. This video walks you through the process (recipe download included).

Learn How to Make These Treats!

The Joy of Punk Vashti

Rabbi Emily Cohen writes about how, sometimes, dressing up for Purim can help us discover ourselves, or at least a new aspect of ourselves.

Read Rabbi Emily's Story

Read & Rite

Perfect destination for everything you might need for Purim. Read & Rite’s unique selection of books and artisanal ritual items offers something for everyone.

Check out these additional Purim resources you might enjoy:

Purim Meditation: Sources and Practice Instructions for Not-knowing

Robed in Malkhut: The Hidden and Revealed in Esther (and Us)

Revisiting Rituals: Offering Non-Alcoholic Options

Eight Ritual Steps of Hakhnasat Orkhim (Welcoming Guests)

Celebrating Purim in Recovery: Shared History and Personal Experience

On Purim: High and Higher

The Ethics of Esther Moments

Purim: The Danger of a Single Story

Four Lessons We Learn From Purim

Purim and #metoo