Purim and a Very Special Torah!

Purim is one of my favorite holidays! I love the costumes, the cookies and the story intrigues me. However, it is a tricky holiday to teach to this age group. If you try to get deeper then princess crowns and groggers you find the story is complicated and long and many of the themes are very adult really quiet sexual and violent when you really get down to it. So I struggle to find themes and stories that are age appropriate but still get at the heart of the holiday.

That said, here are some ideas: 

I like the book which I shared with the class on Sunday: 

Queen Esther Saves Her People 

If you want some info on basics of Purim Tablet Mag has a great FAQ: 
Tablet Mag Purim FAQ 

But, as I alluded to earlier the story of Purim has a dark, violent ending that we don't share with children and many adults I talk have not even learned about. It's not all costumes, playacting and cookies but it is still worth learning about. Read about it here:

My Jewish Learning: Purim, A Violent Ending



On a different note, on Sunday the kids and I were privileged to get to visit the Women's Torah Project Torah in the sanctuary. It is the first ever torah made completely by women. It is currently touring different congregations around the world and has made a stop at Isaiah. It is a beautiful piece of art. The children really enjoyed a close up visit with this amazing Torah and getting to hear its story. You can read more about it here:
 
Women's Torah Project 

Don't forget your costumes this Sunday (3/4) for the not-to-be-missed Purim Carnival. Check your email for details, and don't miss the Temple Isaiah's Purimshpiel on 3/7 at 6:30, it is big fun for the whole family!

-Shalom,
Suzan