The Ukrainians had a light: this is how Purim was celebrated in the shadow of the war

Mass Purim parties, Megillah reading centers around the clock and distribution of thousands of parcels. With alarms in the background and fear of falling missiles – the Jews of Ukraine tried to be as happy as possible on the happy holiday of the year

Against the background of a year since the outbreak of the difficult war in Ukraine that has not yet come to an end, the Jewish communities in Ukraine celebrated the holiday of Purim today, in the shadow of alarms and fear of falling missiles.

Last year, Purim was celebrated with uncertainty. Confusion reigned in every corner and many Jews were in the midst of a journey to escape from the state. This year, despite the situation, the rabbis of the communities and Chabad representatives did everything to bring the joy of Purim to every Jew.

At the center of the Purim events, Megillah reading centers were set up around the clock. According to the reports, the Jews of the burning Ukraine flocked to the dozens of centers, men, women and children. In addition, mass and elaborate Purim parties were held. All the participants and not only received a package delivery and an investment prepared ahead of time by JRNU – the rescue center of Chabad in Ukraine, which stands to the right of all the Jews of the country in the circle of the year.

A year after the war and in the shadow of the situation, the rabbis and emissaries did everything to give the many Jews the joy of the holiday in the most elegant way.

Chabad activists in Ukraine
Photo: Courtesy of the photographer

Chabad emissaries operated in a particularly lively Purim operation in Israel: Megillah reading centers every round hour, distribution of parcels, tefillin discounts, much joy. All over the country Chabad emissaries are working to bring the joy of Purim to the masses. The old Hassidim, along with the young, have been working non-stop since last night.

As part of the operation initiated by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Chabad emissaries set up Megillah reading centers in every town and city every round hour. In addition, the emissaries and Hasidim distribute thousands of parcels and, of course, offer passers-by to place tefillin. Special emphasis is given by Chabad youth to the elderly, immigrants, and the hospitalized , for soldiers and bereaved families.