purim

Purim is a Jewish festival that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people in the Persian Empire from Haman’s plot to destroy them, as told in the Book of Esther (Megillat Esther). The holiday falls on the 14th day of Adar in the Hebrew calendar, or Adar II in leap years; in walled cities such as Jerusalem, the celebration is observed on the 15th (Shushan Purim). The story centers on Esther and her cousin Mordecai during the reign of King Ahasuerus (often identified with Xerxes I).

During Purim, communities read the Megillah aloud in synagogue, with blessings at night and by day. The reading commonly includes murmured or audible reactions whenever Haman’s name is mentioned. The day is also marked by festive customs that emphasize community, charity, and joy.

Core observances include giving gifts of food to friends (mishloach manot), giving to the poor (matanot la’evyonim), and sharing a celebratory meal (se’udat Purim). Many people wear costumes or engage in playful purim spiel performances that retell the story with humor. A common traditional food is hamantaschen, triangular pastries filled with fruit preserves, poppy seeds, or chocolate.

The name Purim derives from pur, meaning “lot,” referring to the lots Haman cast to determine the date of the plot’s execution. The holiday is generally viewed as a time of joy, charity, and communal solidarity, reinforcing themes of courage and resilience in Jewish history.