Purim & Tsom Esther: A Beta Israel Perspective

Purim is widely celebrated across the Jewish world through the reading of Megillat Esther, festive meals, gift-giving, and communal celebrations. Historically, however, Beta Israel (Ethiopian Jewish) communities did not observe Purim as a full festival in the way it is practiced in rabbinic Jewish tradition.

Fasting, however, held an important place in Beta Israel religious life, including the observance of Tsom Esther (the Fast of Esther). The story of Esther also introduces the ancient land of Cush, a region of Northeast Africa referenced throughout Jewish texts.

Together, these subjects offer an opportunity to explore Jewish history, sacred texts, and religious traditions through a Beta Israel perspective.

About This Learning Module: This learning module explores two connections between Purim and Beta Israel tradition: references to the land of Cush in Jewish texts and the historical practice of Tsom Esther.Through these resources, learners will consider how geography and identity intersect in Jewish texts, while exploring the role of fasting, and spiritual preparation in Ethiopian Jewish religious life.

Guiding Questions: What can references to the land of Cush in Jewish texts teach us about geography, history, and identity?
How do fasting and prayer help communities express and preserve their religious traditions?

Learning Goals: Through this module, learners will have opportunities to:
1. Explore references to Cush in Jewish texts and their historical and geographical significance.
2. Learn about Tsom Esther and the importance of fasting in traditional Beta Israel religious life.
3. Recognize how Beta Israel religious practices developed differently from the Purim celebrations familiar to many Jewish communities today.

Who Is This For? This module is designed for educators, students, community leaders, families, and independent learners. Materials may be explored in sequence as a complete learning experience or selected individually according to your interests and available time.

Foundational Learning: If you are new to Beta Israel history and religious life, we recommend beginning with Orit Jewish Learning's Introduction to Beta Israel (Ethiopian Jews) for a basic introduction and background on the Orit, the religious leadership of Kessim, and the historical development of Beta Israel tradition

Purim & Tsom Esther: A Beta Israel Perspective

1. Beta Israel and the Land of Cush

Explore references to the ancient land of Cush in Jewish texts, including Megillat Esther, and consider their connections to geography, history, and Ethiopian Jewish identity.

2. Tsom Esther & Fasting Traditions

Learn about the Fast of Esther and the role of fasting, prayer, and spiritual preparation in traditional Beta Israel religious life.