Celebration of Purim

Today is Purim! Beginning yesterday at sundown, Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire from destruction in the wake of a plot by Haman, the royal vizier to the king. Haman had plotted to kill Mordechai and all of the Jews in ancient Persia. However, Queen Esther, who was a Jew, and Mordechai discovered and foiled the plot. Haman was hanged from the gallows, which had originally been built to hang Mordechai. Now each year, the Jewish community festively celebrates the day with family and friends.

This festive holiday is celebrated with lots of food and wine, parades, costumes and masks! In fact, people are encouraged to drink until they are unable to distinguish the difference between Haman and Mordechai. Children and adults put on a Purim spiel, a humorous play or skit which conveys the story of Purim.

Hamantashen

In addition to a festive meal, hamantashen, also known as Haman hats, are traditionally eaten throughout the day. Yum! Gift wrapped baskets of sweets, snacks and treats are given to family and friends. Charity also plays a significant role in the celebration.

During the traditional reading of the story from the Book of Esther, everyone is encouraged to make as much noise as possible whenever Haman’s name is spoken. The purpose is to drown out his name with noise, so make sure to be loud!

How are you celebrating Purim this year?

To read more about Purim, check out the The Jewish Queen of Persia’s Purim Miracle project on Geni!

View The Jewish Queen of Persia’s Purim Miracle Project