Ultra-Orthodox Party on Purim in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, 25 March, 2024 (TPS-IL) -- On Purim, everybody parties – even the ultra-orthodox. They have festivities in their synagogues and yeshivas (Tora study academies) with dancing (the sexes are separated). Drinking wine is an obligatory part of the holiday, but some people drink a little too much.

In Jerusalem the Purim holiday is celebrated one day later than in the rest of the world. The day is called Shushan Purim. Shushan was the ancient capitol of Persia where the story of Esther and the defeat of the evil Haman who wanted to kill all of the Jews in the world took place.

So, while the rest of the world celebrated Purim on Sunday March 24 – the 14th of the Hebrew month Adar – Jerusalem is celebrating it today, Monday March 25th – the 15th day of Adar.

Photo by Yoav Dudkevitch/TPS