Purim fest continues despite Israeli bombing

While the University's Jewish community mourned Israel's fourth suicide bombing in nine days yesterday, students collectively agreed to celebrate the holiday of Purim. The bomb, detonated outside the Dzengoff Center in Tel Aviv, killed at least 14 people and injured more than 130. Among the victims were children in costume and makeup for Purim celebration. As a result of the deadliest stretch of terror in Israel's history, the Israeli government decided in an emergency session to form a special anti-terrorism task force with sweeping powers. University Jewish students discussed the incident at a meeting yesterday afternoon, at Hillel and on several "chat" pages over e-mail. Although some individuals disagreed, the community's general consensus was that the Purim celebration should continue despite the murders. "We thought for a long time about the situation, but as a community we decided not to cancel Purim," College junior and leader of the Orthodox Community at Penn Tammy Jacobowitz said. "Personally, people will not be able to forget about the disaster, but we could not see the benefit of cancelling the holiday." Some students noted the historical connection between the murders and Purim. "While we feel very upset and affected by the situation, I am trying to push the sadness of the bombing aside for the happiness of Purim," College junior Debby Posner said. "I will not forget about the murders, but this is how Purim originated. We must celebrate while we are waiting for redemption." Throughout the night's celebration, students said they continually reflected on the day's events. "While I was dancing, I began to think about the bombing and I became really sad," said second-year Temple University graduate student Monte Tator. "Then I thought we should dance for the people who were killed. Our tradition is dancing on Purim. This what everything is all about." Among the students who disagreed with celebrating Purim was College graduate student Shawn Aster. "I personally find it difficult to go to the celebration," Aster said. "In the light of this disaster, the only real response is solidarity." The Associated Press contributed to this article.