The Purim miracle celebrates the salvation of the entire Jewish people from genocide at the hands of Haman, the viceroy of the King of the Persian Empire in 355-356 BC. The story of Purim takes place, in the period after the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem and before the construction of the Second Temple.
What is the essence of the holiday?
The holiday of Purim is celebrated on the 14th of Adar in most of the world, and the 15th of Adar in Jerusalem (this year, March 7th and 8th), to commemorate the rescue of the Jews from this extermination, which Haman, the viceroy of King Ahasuerus, the ruler of the Persian Empire, planned to carry out. The holiday is called PURim because of the lots (“Pur” in Persian) that Haman cast to determine on what day the Jews would be massacred. Following the sequence of events described in the Book of Esther, the Penach was canceled and thanks to Queen Esther, Haman’s plot was foiled.
How do you celebrate Purim?
- It is customary to read the Scroll of Esther on the eve of Purim and again on the following day.
- We send parcels of food to each other and gifts to the poor.
- We eat a Purim feast with great pomp.
- Children (but not just children) get dressed up in costumes and masks.
- The holiday is characterized by great joy, merriment and relief.
Happy Purim from Ono Academic College!
