ORANJESTAD — Purim in the Shtetl is Chabad of Aruba’s creative twist to this year’s community celebration of Purim, the holiday commemorating the Jewish people’s salvation in Persia of old. The festivities will be held at Chabad of Aruba on Thursday March 21st.
Billed as the most joyous date on the Jewish calendar, the daylong holiday commemorates the nullification in 356 B.C.E. of a Persian decree calling for the extermination of the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire as told in the biblical Book of Esther. Chabad’s original spin on this age-old holiday has helped bring the spirit of Purim to Aruba for the last few years.
“It combines ancient Jewish traditions with a modern twist,” said Rabbi Ahron Blasberg, of Chabad Aruba. “We focus on doing interesting and innovative programs that will maximize the enjoyment for young and old alike, yet still keeping with the holiday theme”.
The event is a community-wide program, and all are welcome to join. Participants will enjoy delicious food, live music, and fun entertainment.
In addition, the celebration will feature a reading of the Book of Esther, known in Hebrew as the Megillah.
The event is focused primarily on spirit, fun, and tradition. everyone is sure to have a great time!
In the spirit of Purim, participants are encouraged to come in costume, and there will be a competition for the most innovative or funny entries.
What is the holiday of Purim?
The festival of Purim is celebrated every year on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar. It begins this year after sundown on March 20 and ends at nightfall on March 21. The holiday commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in Ancient Persia from Haman’s plot “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day.” It is observed by public readings of the Megillah, or Scroll of Esther, to recount the story of the Purim miracle, sending food gifts to friends, giving gifts of money to the poor and enjoying a festive Purim meal.
For more information on Purim festivities or on the holiday of Purim and its observances, contact Chabad Aruba at info@jewishAruba.com or visit our website at www.JewishAruba.com/purim.
