By Ramona L. Brand, Director of Youth Learning
Women’s Voices of Resilience in Megillah Esther
Male voices and stories are generally the ones amplified in Jewish texts narrating their deeds of devotion, bravery, resistance and leadership.
Megillat Esther, the scroll telling the story of Purim, is widely held as an important feminine/feminist example how women voices are elevated at the center of the story.
Purim’s boisterous and exuberant celebration literally shouts the story of women’s resilience against the constraint of a male oriented society. Vashti and Esther must make choices in how to use their voice to counteract potentially life-threatening situations. Each chooses a different strategy in accomplishing that goal.
Vashti’s loud and uncompromising “NO!” against the king’s uncomfortable and exploitive request demonstrates the courage to speak out for self-preservation. Although Vashti is banished, her action stands as a spotlight on courageous speech. Esther’s acts of resilience take a different path.
She operates from within the system, she is methodical and deliberate. Initially in order to remain true to Judaism, she quietly maintains a vegetarian diet.
When Haman schemes for the annihilation of the Jewish people, accepting the danger to herself, she prays, she prepares, she plans, and builds her case with the king to gain victory.
Vashti acts to save herself, Esther acts to save others as well. Both are appropriate acts of resilience. Beneath the frivolity and rowdy trappings of Purim, Vashti and Esther lead us in examples of how women can speak truth to power in dangerous times.
Family/ Better Together Shabbat with guest Musician in Residence:
Saturday, March 1
The community is invited to join us for a very special Family Shabbat with guest Musician in Residence Rena Branson. The Better Together teens and Seniors will give the D’var; students are welcome to participate in the service.
Date: Saturday, March 1
Temple Beth-El Sanctuary, 3330 Grove Ave. Time: 10 a.m. with Kiddush Lunch to follow
Contact: r.brand@bethelrichmond.org for registration information
Young Family Shabbat: Friday, March 7
Enjoy a musical Shabbat with Rabbi Rachel Salston and Ramona Brand. Songs, stories, movement and more engage the littles and parents alike. A Family friendly dinner is served directly after services with time for socializing with friends. A fun-filled service designed for the Wiggles.
Date: Friday, March 7/ Monthly Theme: Dress Up Shabbat – get in the mood for Purim by wearing your favorite costume!
Enjoy a lively 30-minute service followed by family friendly dinner or muffin breakfast.
Location: Temple Beth-El, 3330 Grove Ave. Richmond, VA 23221 / Okun Chapel
Dinner is complimentary but kindly RSVP for dinner to r.brand@bethelrichmond.org
Young Family Shabbat alternates months between Friday nights and Saturday mornings. See the remaining 2025 schedule below:
Friday, March 7 / Saturday, April 5 / Friday, May 3 / Saturday, June 7
Purim Party Extravaganza, Sunday, March 9
Hold onto your crowns and get ready for a whirlwind, zany Purim party during Religious School hours. Games, activities, crafts, costume contest, Mishloach Manot bags, stories and more.
The celebration culminates in a zany Madlibs Megillah reading.
10 a.m.- noon during Religious School
March Religious School Calendar
Sundays: March 2, 9, 16, 23 / 9 a.m. – noon/ grades Pre-K through 10
Wednesdays: March 5, 12, 29, 26 / 4:15 – 6:15 p.m./ grades 3-7
Pre-K meets March 9 & 23
Better Together meets March 2 & 23
6th Grade Family Learning meets March16
A few more photos from Religious School programs.
