Let’s Celebrate Purim Together!
In March, we celebrate the festival of Purim also known as the ‘Feast of Lots’, a Jewish festival known for extravagant costumes, the
exchanging of gift baskets, singing, dancing and feasting.
This joyous celebration commemorates how Jews in Biblical times were spared from massacre during the Persian Empire. It is the most fun-filled day of the Jewish year.
Purim this year begins on Thursday night, 13th March, and ends at sundown on Friday 14th March.
How do we celebrate Purim?
It is customary to dress up in fancy dress and there are four mitzvot that we are encouraged to do on Purim:
- Hear the Megillah: Head to your synagogue to hear the whole Megillah. The Megillah, also known as ‘The Book of Esther,’ tells the Purim story. It is important to try and hear every word.
When Haman’s name is mentioned, you can twirl greggers (noisemakers) or stamp your feet to drown out the sound of his name. Purim is the only time when children are encouraged to make noise during services!
- Give to the needy (Matanot LaEvyonim): on the day of Purim, we place special emphasis on caring for the less fortunate.
Give money or food to at least two needy people. Alternatively, your synagogue will be collecting money for this purpose. Even small children are asked to fulfill this mitzvah.
- Send food gifts to friends (Mishloach Manot): on Purim we emphasise the importance of friendship and community by giving gifts of food to friends. It is customary to take a package containing at least two different ready-to-eat food and drink items (e.g. pastry, fruit, wine/grape juice) to at least one Jewish friend if not more.
- Enjoy a Purim meal with family and friends: during Purim day, invite your family and friends to celebrate with a delicious festive Purim feast. Traditionally, this meal begins before sundown and lasts well into the evening.
- The table should be decked out with candles and challah. We’re encouraged to enjoy a meal featuring plenty of food, wine and Jewish songs, words of Torah and joyous Purim spirit. Sing, drink, laugh and have fun together.
What will you be doing to celebrate Purim this year?