Genocide, resistance, celebration

All in the words of Esther

By Allen Menkin, Project Coordinator, CAMERA’s partnership of Christians and Jews

Purim, as related in the Book of Esther, has always seemed like a celebration of anomalies. The text is included in both Jewish and Christian canons, but only the Catholic version even mentions G-d. Unlike the other four books of Ketuvim, which focus on strong human emotions, the saga of Esther and Mordechai tells a dark tale of last-minute reprieve from genocide as an almost Shakespearean court intrigue, replete with contrived situations, human foibles, wildly exaggerated characters and multilayered subplots; and we observe it with customs and rituals that are altogether too raucous and lighthearted for a serious holiday.

What lies behind the shpiel, gragers and hamantaschen, the costumes and merry making? Why do we consider Esther the first female diplomat and what is her appeal outside of Judaism? How did our survival hinge on an exchange of letters?

We invite you to join us March 19, 7 p.m. (seating begins at 6:30 p.m.) at Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, 4720 Pine Ridge Road.

Featured speakers, Dr. Tricia Miller and Rabbi Fishel Zaklos, will delve into the deeper significance of Esther and the Purim story, and why it is so relevant and timely for both Jews and Christians.

Registration required at www.jewishnaples.org.