Adelson Campus Celebrates Purim

Las Vegas, March 3 --- More than 400 strong from The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Educational Campus dressed in costume on Friday, February 26 to celebrate Purim. Purim reflects the story of the Book of Esther. It honors the miraculous victory of the Jewish people over the evil plot of Haman to destroy the Jews of Persia.
 
One of the many themes of Purim that Adelson students learn is the idea of Klal Yisrael—that everyone must stick together as a community, and in times of crisis no one is free from the obligation to help out. A key teaching of Judaism is Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh BaZeh—everyone is responsible for helping each other out. This can be seen in Mordechai’s charge to Esther in the Book of Esther 4:13-14.
 
Purim also stresses the idea of Tzedakah. While Judaism stresses helping those in need throughout the year, it is emphasized on Purim through the giving of Matanot LaEvyonim, gifts to the poor. As an example of these teachings, 4th grade Lower School Adelson students are collecting canned goods as part of their Canstruction project. Teachers reminded students of their responsibility on Purim to help those less fortunate. 
 
The school community also came together to enjoy the Purim carnival that followed Friday’s school day. The custom of the Purim carnival was first introduced among the Italian Jews about the close of the fifteenth century, and is one of the staples of the Purim festivities. The students and staff all dressed in great costumes! Costumes are a popular custom on Purim because mistaken identity plays an important role in the Book of Esther, as Queen Esther ‘dressed up’ to hide her identity.
 
All truly lived up to the ancient Jewish adage, Mi sh’nichnas Adar marbim b’simcha!  (“Those who celebrate Adar—the month when Purim comes—increase their joy!”)