Megillah Reading at Fatso’s

By Justin Leverett, University Daily Kansan 10/03/09

The Chabad Jewish Center in Lawrence will host a series of events today celebrating the Jewish holiday of Purim.

Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel, executive director of the Chabad Jewish Center, said the story of Purim illustrated how Jews overcame a difficult time by being joyous. This traditional Jewish story of salvation is recorded on a scroll called the Megillah, which is handwritten in special ink. Events today include readings from this scroll, a Purim tradition.

Matthew Rissien, Overland Park senior, said he celebrated Purim in Israel last year and described it as a “giant state of partying.” Two years ago, he celebrated at the University, and remembered the celebration was full of students dancing and partying.

“I think it’s one of the most fun holidays because everyone is so happy,” Rissien said. “It’s actually a commandment to be happy on Purim.”

Tiechtel said the holiday was meant to encourage Jewish people to overcome challenges in life by having joy in their hearts.

“The universal message about the holiday is a message of joy,” Tiechtel said.

The celebration began last night with a costume party open to all students held at Fatso’s in downtown Lawrence.

A Megillah reading will be held on campus at noon today on the third floor of the Kansas Union, Tiechtel said. Students can listen to the reading, called “Purim on the Go,” and get food before going to classes. One of the traditional Jewish desserts served at the reading will be Hamentashen, a three-cornered triangle cookie with fruit filling.

The Chabad Jewish Center, 1203 W. 19th Street, will then host a celebration and dinner, Tiechtel said. The celebration is called “Purim under the Big Top” and will have a circus theme. It will include a BBQ dinner, cotton candy, popcorn and other treats. Tiechtel said all were welcome to join regardless of affiliation or background.

“Students have a lot of stress in life and the Purim celebration gives them an opportunity to relax,” Tiechtel said.

Tiechtel said that for him, the holiday meant that regardless of how challenging life could be, there was always something to be happy about.

“The holiday is universal, anyone can celebrate it with us, and with the economy the way it is, everyone should try to smile,” Tiechtel said.

Natalie Brown, Boulder, Colo., junior, is the party planner for the Chabad Jewish Center’s celebration. She said she would describe the holiday as a mix between St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween.

“For people who aren’t Jewish, I think it’s cool to keep your mind open and try new things,” Brown said.

She said the holiday reminded her of her ancestors’ history and made her appreciate her family.

“To me it means overcoming challenges, appreciating heritage and remembering those who came before me,” Brown said. “It’s what being Jewish is all about, family and celebrating.”

Rissien said to him Purim was always a fun celebration, which brought all kinds of people together to celebrate in happiness.

“It means a lot that the Jewish faith has a holiday where really everyone takes time to just come together and have a good time,” Rissien said. “It’s my favorite holiday for sure.”