Megilat Esther Scroll: This scroll which is read on the Jewish holiday or Purim was in my family for generations. My father, who was born and raised in Iraq, immigrated to Israel in the early 1950s when he was 12 by himself. His family stayed behind. The scroll came with him. My father remembers the scroll dated to his grandfather and believes it has been with the family for generations. The scroll called “Megilat Esther” has a significant meaning and tells the story of the Jewish holiday of Purim.  In the Purim story, the Jewish nation was once again up against genocide where good prevailed against evil. The meaning of Purim is all about the personal sacrifices of Queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai who hatched a plan to save the Jewish people. A good deed done by Mordechai, saving the Kings’s life for no reward but just for doing the right thing; an ego driven servant, Haman; and a selfless Esther saved our nation. 

Coming from a family of immigrants and being one myself, makes this scroll remind me of my heritage, importance of being a good citizen and working towards a greater good. 
 

– Shimon Shkury

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant