Scapegoats through the ages and the Purim parallel

The concept of Tikkun Olam, Hebrew for "repairing the world", is an important mission. To prevent or resolve  social chaos wherever and whenever it presents itself should be the goal of all people, regardless of ethnicity or religion. In a piece for the Huffington Post Canada's religion blog, Toronto-raised Rabbi Rachel Kahn-Troste, director of North American programs for Rabbis for Human Rights North America, traces the practice back to the time of Esther and the story of Purim.

Top Purim Stops 2011

This weekend as many of you know we celebrate Purim, eating some Hamantaschen, reading from Megillat Esther and making a lot of noise. What are some of the hot-spots where today's Jewish youth will assemble? Two top events come to mind: The Annex Shul and the Forest Hill Jewish Center will likely get quite the crowd.

At the Annex it all gets underway at 8:30p.m., the event held jointly with Impact Toronto, UJA and Jewish Family & Child. The theme this year - "Heroes and Villains" - dress up as your favorites then party the night away at Revival Bar on College you can buy your tickets online to save $5 or it will be $20 at the door. For more information on the event click here.


Alternatively, for those who have never been to the Forest Hill Jewish Center and need a little extra time Saturday night, their event kicks off at 9 p.m. with the Megillah reading followed by a live band entertaining the partygoers afterwards. This event is free for all those interested, but BYOB.

Wherever you may be getting together be safe and have fun. Happy Purim!