Artur Livshyts (co-founder of The Together Plan and Chair of the Religious Union of Belarus) on the left and Rabbi Mordechai Raichenstein, Chief Rabbi of Belarus on the right - Purim 2024
In the face of historical adversity, the flame of Jewish life in Belarus continues to burn brightly. Despite years of oppression and silence during the Soviet era, the Jewish community in Belarus is experiencing a renaissance, marked by vibrant celebrations and a renewed sense of identity.
We are thrilled to share some of the highlights from this year’s Purim festivities, where communities across Belarus came together to celebrate survival and resilience through the reading of the Megillah, the scroll of Esther.
Purim holds a special significance for Jews around the world, commemorating the miraculous salvation of the Jewish people from the hands of their enemies as recounted in the Book of Esther. This ancient text, written during a time of cultural assimilation and persecution, speaks to the enduring struggles of preserving Jewish identity and ensuring survival in the face of adversity.
In Minsk, the capital city of Belarus, over 100 people gathered to celebrate Purim in a joyous and spirited occasion. On March 24th, the festivities commenced at the Minsk Jewish Heritage Centre, located at the site of the Daumana Street Synagogue, where participants enjoyed traditional food, drink, and music amidst the echoes of history.
The celebrations then continued at a hotel in Minsk, where even more people joined for the reading of the Megillah. As the story of Esther unfolded, recounting the thwarting of Haman’s plot to destroy the Jewish people, the atmosphere was filled with merriment and camaraderie.
Purim celebrations at the Minsk Jewish Heritage Centre at Daumana Street Synagogue, Minsk 24.3.24
Reading the Megillah – Minsk Jewish community (Rabbi Mordechai Raichenstein on the right)
Purim at the Minsk Jewish Heritage Centre March 24th 2024
Purim in Brest 24.03.2024
Amidst the joy of Purim, we were proud to see our very own Artur Livshyts, co-founder and country Director of The Together Plan, front and centre sporting his bright yellow Purim costume as the Chairman of the Religious Jewish Union of Belarus. In this new role, Artur is spearheading efforts to bring together Jewish communities from across Belarus, ensuring they receive the support, coordination, and collaboration they deserve.
In Mogilev – the Jewish community came together to enjoy the festivities – young and old alike with food, music and dancing and lots of joy and laughter.
Purim in Mogilev, Belarus 2024
Members of the Moilev Jewish community – a Purim L’Chaim
Artur Livshyts (co-founder of The Together Plan and Chair of the Religious Union of Belarus) on the left and Rabbi Mordechai Raichenstein, Chief Rabbi of Belarus on the right – Purim 2024
Rabbi Mordechai Raichenstein speaks at the Leonid Levin Memorial Evening, Minsk 10.03.2024
For too long, these communities and their rich history have been neglected and forgotten. But with new initiatives for sustainability and development underway, we are committed to restoring history, supporting these communities, and bridging the information gap.
The history of the Jews of Belarus is both rich and tragic, and vitally central to modern-day Judaism in the diaspora. As we celebrate Purim and look ahead to the future, let us raise a toast to a stronger and more resilient future – together.
Happy Purim to everyone, everywhere. May the spirit of survival, renewal and celebration inspire us all to strive for a brighter tomorrow. L’ Chaim!