Megillah was read to the Jewish soldiers of Ukraine who liberated Bucha and Irpen in honor of Purim — Mishloach Manot from the Chief Rabbi of Kyiv

“The Megillah was read to the defenders-heroes of Kyiv, who expelled Russian occupiers from Bucha and Irpin.

The Chief Rabbi of Kyiv, Yonatan Markovich, gave mishloach manot (traditional holiday gifts) to the soldiers.

Along with him was the head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense’s Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, who also came to congratulate the Jewish soldiers on the holiday”.

In Kyiv, as part of the Purim celebration, a unique ceremony took place: Jewish soldiers who liberated Bucha and Irpin heard the reading of the Scroll of Esther. This tradition, an integral part of the Jewish holiday of Purim, takes on special significance in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The event was covered on March 14, 2025, by Israeli military expert and analyst Yigal Levin, who emphasizes the importance of this moment for the moral support of Jews fighting for their country.

Purim: The Megillah as a Symbol of Victory

Purim is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish tradition, which reminds of the salvation of the Jewish people from destruction in Persia. According to tradition, every Jew is obligated to read or hear the reading of the Scroll of Esther twice, which is the central element of the holiday. This year, this ritual has taken on new meaning, especially for soldiers fighting Russian occupiers in eastern Ukraine.

The Megillah, or the Scroll of Esther, is an important element of Purim. It tells the story of the salvation of the Jews from destruction in Persia, when Queen Esther and her uncle Mordecai helped prevent this act of genocide. In the context of the Purim holiday, reading the Megillah becomes not just an act of religious devotion, but also a symbol of victory and survival, especially for those fighting for their country. The reading of the Scroll of Esther by Jewish soldiers who liberated Bucha and Irpin became an important act of moral support for them and their comrades-in-arms.

The Importance of Reading the Megillah for Soldiers

Reading the Megillah by Jewish soldiers on the front lines is a symbol of victory over those who were once enemies of the Jewish people and hope for future victories. “We defeated that Amalek, we will defeat this one,” — this phrase became the creed of the ceremony participants.

The Megillah in this context becomes especially meaningful for soldiers fighting in Ukraine. This year, Purim is not just a holiday, but a symbol of courage and resilience. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving one’s identity and faith, even in the most difficult circumstances, when the whole world is at war.

Memorial Ceremony and Lighting of Candles

Before reading the Megillah, a memorial ceremony took place, during which candles were lit in memory of the fallen soldiers and civilians who gave their lives for Ukraine. These moments are crucial for maintaining the morale of the soldiers, especially for those who have lost relatives and friends during the conflict. Remembering the fallen became an integral part of the event.

Lighting the candles became an important moment when participants remembered not only the fallen for Ukraine but also those who gave their lives defending the peaceful future of their children. This event strengthened the spiritual bond between soldiers, their families, and those who survived the horrors of war.

Role of the Clergy and Authorities

The Chief Rabbi of Kyiv, Yonatan Markovich, played a significant role in organizing the reading of the Megillah. He personally presented the soldiers with mishloach manot — traditional holiday gifts, symbolizing care and attention to others. This gesture was not only an act of mercy but also part of a deep spiritual connection between nations supporting each other during difficult times.

Mishloach manot are traditional gifts exchanged by Jews on Purim. These gifts symbolize care and attention to others and often include sweets, nuts, or fruits. It is not only an element of the holiday but also a way of strengthening the bond within the Jewish community, especially in difficult times like war. During the reading of the Megillah, the Chief Rabbi of Kyiv, Yonatan Markovich, presented mishloach manot to the soldiers participating in the defense of Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of spiritual connection and support, particularly among military personnel.

Also participating in the ceremony was Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense’s Intelligence Directorate, who congratulated the soldiers on Purim and emphasized the importance of their struggle for Ukraine. The participation of such high-ranking officials only enhanced the significance of this event, demonstrating how crucial it is to support soldiers, especially those who are part of the Jewish people.

Symbolism in Actions and Words

In combination with traditions and important ceremonies, such as reading the Megillah and lighting candles, these actions have become symbols of the resilience and courage of soldiers fighting not only for their country but also for their religion and culture. During Purim, when Jews traditionally celebrate victories, these soldiers experience profound spiritual fulfillment from knowing they are defending their homeland and people.

Key Figures

• Yigal Levin — Israeli military expert and analyst who extensively covered the event in his article for NAnews.
• Yonatan Markovich — Chief Rabbi of Kyiv, who presented mishloach manot to the Jewish soldiers.
• Kyrylo Budanov — Head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense’s Intelligence Directorate, who also attended the ceremony and congratulated the soldiers on Purim.

The Role of the Jewish People in Ukraine’s War

Jews participating in Ukraine’s struggle are part of a broader picture where the Jewish community plays an important role in defending their country. Many Jews from Ukraine, Israel, and other countries are helping their homeland in the fight against Russian occupiers, asserting their position and spiritual values.

At this time, as Ukraine stands at the front line of the battle against aggression, the support of the Jewish community takes on special significance. Ukrainian Jewish soldiers, along with other heroes, are fighting not only for their country but also for the peaceful future of their children, for independence and freedom.

In this context, Purim and its traditions are not just a holiday but a symbol of spiritual strength, resilience, and solidarity. The Megillah, the Scroll of Esther, traditionally read on Purim, takes on special meaning for Jewish soldiers in this context. It is not just a religious ritual, but a symbol of victory, strength of spirit, and faith in a better future.

NAnews – News from Israel provides the latest news and events related to Israelis and Ukrainians, emphasizing the importance of the alliance between the two peoples during Ukraine’s difficult period.