The University of Rhode Island Hillel lent a helping hand to those celebrating Purim away from home, holding that took place throughout the week.
Beginning on Monday night and ending on Tuesday, corresponding to the 14th and 15th of the Hebrew month of Adar, Purim is a holiday that celebrates the survival of Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire against the plot of Haman.
With power from the king, Haman determined that he would rid Persia of Jewish people and drew a lottery of dates of which a massacre would take place. Purim’s name directly translates to “lots,” short for lottery.
A Jewish man named Mordecai spoke to his niece Esther, who had been chosen to become queen, and asked her to speak to the king. Esther was able to convince the king to reverse his rule to Haman, but unfortunately could not reverse his decree.
In spite of this, the king permitted the Jewish people to fight back. The Jewish people thwarted Haman’s plans, killing Haman and his 10 sons and surviving the massacre.
This is a story of strength and struggle for the Jewish people, according to URI Hillel Executive Director Amy Olson.
“It really is a story of adversity,” Olson said. “Being able to emerge victorious and not get wiped out.”
During the holiday, there are four main traditions that people participate in.
The first is hearing the Scroll of Esther read out loud. The scroll contains the full story of the struggle against Haman and is read on the first night of the holiday and the following morning.
The second is to give to the poor, a sign of the good fortune that individuals have, and to be thankful for it.
Third is to send gifts to other people. Called mishloach manot, gift giving is the custom of making food packages and sending them around to your neighbors.
Fourth is having a big festive meal as part of the holiday.
URI Hillel ran multiple events to help students celebrate on campus. On Thursday, Hillel invited students to come and bake hamantashen, a special pastry that is made during the holiday. The pastry was part of a bake sale, and all proceeds benefited the Rhody Outpost.
On Friday, a Shabbat dinner was held, and individuals were invited to dress up in costumes. Dressing up in costume is a custom of the holiday, as it signifies Esther hiding her identity when she married the king.
On Monday night, Hillel held a Purim party, which included a big festive meal and a Jeopardy-style game themed around the Purim story.
For students, Hillel has offered a home away from home, allowing them to celebrate familiarity, according to URI Hillel front desk intern Corey Vasco.
“It creates a family environment,” Vasco said. “[Hillel] really makes sure to cater to your needs and traditions. They try to include my traditions when possible. You feel very welcome.”
Hillel’s efforts to cater to students have made them feel like they are at home for Purim, according to Vasco.
“There’s always a really good turnout for all the holidays,” Vasco said. “It makes you feel less alone when you’re away from your family during these holidays.”
While Purim has come to an end, Hillel continues to provide support for students on campus. For more information, visit the Hillel website.
