Until modern times, Shabbat and holiday lights were usually kindled with oil. In some places, like India, thats still the custom. The woman in this photograph is lighting hanging oil lamps in honor of the holiday of Purim. Although Jewish law doesnt require the kindling of lights for Purim, it is the tradition in her community to welcome all holidays with light.
This woman is part of Indias Bnei Yisrael community, the largest Jewish community remaining in the country. According to tradition, the original members of the Bnei Yisrael were shipwrecked on the Indian coast more than 2,000 years ago, and theyve been there ever since. Today, there are only about four or Œfive thousand Jews in Indiaa country with a total population of one billion! Although the community is smaller today than it once was, it still strives to preserve its Jewish identity, its connection to Israel, and its unique local customs.