Purim

Purim is one of the most festive Jewish holidays. On the eve of Purim, the Book of Esther (Megilat Esther) is read. This book tells the story of Esther, the Jewish Queen of Persia, who saved all of the Jews of the Persian kingdom. Every time the name "Haman" (the king's evil advisor) is mentioned, those present make as much noise as possible, to "boo" the evil character in the story.

The day before Purim is "Ta'anit Esther" (the Fast of Esther). Observant Jews fast on this day in remembrance of Esther's request of the Jews of the city of Shushan to fast for her before she went before the king.

[crown] Jews celebrate Purim by dressing up in costumes. Traditionally, Jews wore costumes of Queen Esther and her uncle, Mordecai, but today anything goes--from clowns to Spiderman to Spanish dancers. Purim parties are festive events with drinking, music, dancing, etc. One custom is to get so drunk that you can't tell the difference between the evil Haman and the righteous Mordecai.

[glasses] On Purim, it is traditional to send "mishloah manot"--"goody bags" consisting of cookies and candies to friends and relatives. We eat "Hamantashen", triangular cookies usually filled with dates or poppy seeds.

Read the Story of Purim!

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