Purim in Israel 100 Years Ago: A Glimpse into Rarely Celebrated Holiday

Purim celebrations in Israel a century ago were very different from today. The article explores the historical context and shifts that have occurred over the years.

In the early 1900s, Purim was celebrated with significant enthusiasm in some parts of the Jewish community, although it wasn’t yet a major national holiday in Israel. The customs were vibrant, with traditional costumes, public performances, and festive meals.

Fast forward to today, and Purim is a widely celebrated event with modern parades and street parties in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. This article also reflects on how political and social changes have impacted the ways in which this holiday is observed, especially in the context of Israel’s evolution as a nation.

These historical insights provide a deeper understanding of Purim’s transformation from a community-based festivity to a national one.

Read Original Article: JNS

Image credit - Joseph Schweig, KKL-JNF Photo Archive.