| Purim - Traditions |
|
|
Purim is celebrated on the day after the great battle
in the Book of Esther, which is on the 14th of Adar.
In walled cities, such as Jerusalem it is celebrated on the 15th
because the Jews had to defend the walled city of Shushan which was
also walled for two days. |
 |
There are four
Mitzvot (requirements) at Purim
- Reading the Book of Esther out loud
- Being festive and rejoicing
- Giving Gifts of fruits and nuts
- Offering gifts to the poor
Traditionally the book of Esther is read out loud at synagogue twice on
Purim: once at night and once during the day. The scroll is called a
Megillah and it contains the story of Esther. The whole story is read
for people to hear. One of the most fun things about the reading is
that when the name of Haman is read out, people stamp their feet and
make noise (many have noise makers for this) to drown out the evil name
of the villain.
Many children, and grownups too, dress up in costumes for Purim. There
are contests for the best costume, games, plays and fun for everyone.
Giving gifts of food (Mishalach Manot) to friends, family and neighbors
is traditional. Fruit, nuts and hamantashen are the usual gifts.
Remembering the poor (Matanot l'evyonim) and giving to those less
fortunate then you are.
The day before Purim is the fast of Esther. It is a minor fast which
lasts from sunrise to nightfall. If it should happen to fall on
Shabbat, then it is moved to a day earlier. |
So, when did this all happen?
| Achashverosh becomes king of Persia |
3392 |
| Achashverosh's Feast (180 days) |
3395 |
| Esther taken to Achashverosh |
Tevet, 3399 |
| Haman casts lots |
Nissan, 3404 |
| First decrees dispatched by Haman |
13 Nissan 3404 |
| Three day Fast ordered by Esther |
14-16 Nissan 3404 |
| Haman's downfall and execution |
17 Nissan 3404 |
| Second decrees, reversing the first |
23 Sivan 3404 |
| Haman's ten sons executed |
3 Adar 3405 |
| Purim celebration |
14 Adar 3405 |
| Purim celebration in Shushan |
15 Adar 3405 |
| The Megillah recorded |
3406 |
Purim celebrates a victory over those who sought to bring about our
destruction. It is a victory of people over hatred and violence to
others and trusting HaShem to make it possible if we do our part. |
|
