Pasadena Jewish Community Marks Purim Holiday Against Somber Backdrop

The Jewish community in Pasadena will observe Purim this weekend, combining traditional festivities with sober reflection.

Purim, which commemorates the biblical story of the Jews’ deliverance from persecution in ancient Persia, is typically one of the most joyous holidays on the Jewish calendar. This year’s celebration, however, comes at a time of violence and turmoil in Israel and Gaza.

Rabbi Chaim Hanoka, Executive Director of Chabad of Pasadena, said Purim is a time for celebration and reflection, commemorating the miraculous saving of the Jewish people in ancient Persia.

“It has deep meaning to it, in which the story of Purim, which took place thousands of years ago in Persia, represents essentially the transformation of a very dark time for the Jewish people, one of persecution and threatened annihilation, into a holiday of joy and light and ultimately great celebration,” Rabbi Hanoka said.

The Purim story originated around the 4th century BCE, when the Persian Empire extended over expansive territory, and the Jews were its subjects. After the Persian king banished his wife for failing to follow his orders, he arranged a beauty pageant to find a new queen. A Jewish girl, Esther, found favor in his eyes and became the new queen. He did not know she was Jewish until some time later, when the king’s advisers were threatening to annihilate the Jews.

The story of the Jews being saved and given the right to defend themselves against their enemies has been passed on to generations of Jews and is the basis for Purim.

Chabad of Pasadena plans to hold a Purim carnival, which will include traditional activities and foods. The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center will focus its observance on the customary Purim mitzvot, including reading the Book of Esther, exchanging food gifts, and supporting those in need.