Purim celebrates the survival of the Jewish people in Persia, when threatened with annihilation from the actions of the wicked Haman, plotting against them. Queen Esther hid her Jewish identity until she was able to reveal herself to King Achashveyrosh and save her people.
Purim means “lots”, as in to draw lots, because Haman drew lots (or maybe rolled dice) to determine what day he would lead the citizens of Shushan in massacring the Jewish population of the city. He chose the 14th of Adar, and so that is when we celebrate the holiday.
Purim has a number of customs that are observed to celebrate the holiday. However, there are 4 specific activities that are mitzvot, commandments, and must be observed:
- Gather to listen to the reading of Megillat Esther, which tells the story of Purim
- Participate in a festive meal, a seudah, to celebrate
- Give Mishloach Manot, gifts of food, to friends and family
- Give Matanot La’Evyonim, gifts to the poor, so that everyone is able to celebrate
Other customs include dressing up in costumes, making and eating Hamentashen, carnivals, and Purim Spiels – theatrical events where participants act out the Purim story (with various levels of accuracy), tell jokes, sing songs, and otherwise entertain the audience.
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