Book of Esther
Purim’s original queen: How studying the Book of Esther as fan fiction can teach us about the roots of an unruly Jewish festival
By Esther Brownsmith — March 26, 2024
(The Conversation) — Whether thousands of years ago or right now, fans have always created new stories based on familiar characters, weaving their own experiences into the tale.
Judaism’s rituals to honor new mothers are ever-rooted, ever-changing – from medieval embroidery and prayer to new traditions today
By Lisa Fishbayn Joffe — May 30, 2023
(The Conversation) — Recent generations of Jewish women have looked to reinvent rituals marking the most meaningful moments in their lives, especially childbirth and motherhood.
Queen Vashti is not the feminist symbol many want her to be
By Avi Shafran — March 6, 2023
(RNS) — It’s sad to see a carefully preserved Jewish historical tradition sacrificed on the altar of a contemporary ism.
Orthodox Jewish women scholars’ growing authority is recognized in push to publish
By Beth Kissileff — March 29, 2022
(RNS) — A raft of new research fellowships and writing workshops represent a coming of age for the idea that learned women can claim authority in interpreting Jewish law.
The joys and ironies of Purim echo through history
By Avi Shafran — March 16, 2022
(RNS) — On Purim, Jews celebrate having overcoming their darkest hours.
It’s the happiest of Jewish holidays. But this Purim, many are feeling sad.
By Yonat Shimron — February 23, 2021
(RNS) — This year as they mark Purim, a one-day holiday that begins Thursday evening (Feb. 25), American Jews are viewing the raucous, rollicking feast with a touch of grief.
Is Purim the Jewish Halloween? Some Jews say no.
By Tracy Gordon — March 1, 2012
(RNS) The raucous Jewish holiday of Purim begins on Wednesday (Mar. 7) and many a Jewish kid will dress up in costumes and give out treats to neighbors. Sound like Halloween? For some Jewish families, the answer is a resounding "no." By Lauren Markoe.
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