We are a stubborn nation. When our position is challenged we tend to cling tenaciously. We produce plenty of oil but without a flame our oil is useless. What kind of flame ignites our oil ?   more »

Purim however remains an anomaly. Amidst the celebrations of Purim Jews dress up in masquerade and make a point of concealing their face. For a religion filled with somberness and sobriety there is a great deal of levity associated with this Halloween like practice. A question not often asked is - what is the source of this custom?   more »

We have recently celebrated the holiday of Purim and are currently preparing for the holiday of Pesach - Passover. These two holidays are not only different from each other they are almost antithetical to one another.   more »

The Jewish holiday of Purim commemorates a particularly joyful episode in Jewish history. In the year 355, before the common era, the flourishing Jewish community of Persia was threatened by a royal decree of mass execution. The decree was largely inspired by Haman, an antisemitic minister and adviser to the Royal Court.   more »

The Talmud relates a Purim story that at first glance seems astonishing. The great sage Rabba invited his contemporary Reb Zeira for the Purim Feast. During the course of dinner, intoxicated by wine, Rabba rose and slaughtered Reb Zeira. In the morning, Rabba prayed for a miracle and Reb Zeira was resurrected. The following year, Rabba invited Reb Zeira once again. Reb Zeira, however, declined stating, �not every day does a miracle occur�.   more »