This Purim, we’re taking a deeper look at one of the most extraordinary stories in Jewish history.
The Purim story centers on Queen Esther—the first Jewish queen—and is preserved not in a book, but in a Megillah, a sacred scroll, like the Torah itself. It is a story of courage, hidden identity, and survival in exile.
But it is also something more.
Purim tells the story of Persian Jews—widely considered the longest continuously existing Jewish diaspora—and invites us to explore Jewish life in Persia from ancient times to today. At a moment when Iran is once again at the center of global attention, this history feels especially urgent.
And it raises an essential question: who are Persian Jews?
Tonight, we are honored to be joined by writer and scholar Alan Niku, who will guide this conversation through history, lived experience, and storytelling. Alan lives in what many affectionately call Tehrangeles, home to the largest Iranian population outside of Iran, and brings a deeply personal lens to the Purim story and the world it emerged from.
🕯 Tonight only
🕔 5:00 PM PT | 8:00 PM ET
💻 Live webinar
📼 Recording included with registration
If you’ve been meaning to join, this is your last chance. You won’t want to miss this conversation.
Register now to join us live or receive the recording afterward.
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Maas Center for Jewish Journeys
American Jewish University
