The Story of Esther: A Journey Through Persian 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, just like the Torah itself. It’s a story of courage, hidden identity, and survival in exile. But it’s also something more. Purim tells the story of the Iranian (Persian) Jews are widely considered the longest continuously existing Jewish diaspora—Persian Jewry—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? We’re honored to be joined by writer and scholar Alan Niku, who will guide this conversation from a deeply personal and historical perspective. Alan lives in what we affectionately call Tehrangeles—home to the largest Iranian population outside of Iran—and brings lived experience, scholarship, and storytelling to the table.

📜 Come learn the story behind the story
📚 Explore Persian Jewish history
💬 Ask questions and engage in conversation

Join us on March 1, just in time for Purim. 🎭Sign up today—we’d love to learn together. ✨