Chag Purim Sameach! Say this to wish someone a Happy Purim!

Purim is a Jewish Festival celebrated in the spring from sunset 25th-26th February this 2021. Purim (which literally translates to "lots") marks the salvation of the Jewish people. The event is recorded in the Book of Esther from the Torah and the Old Testament of the Bible. 

How Purim Began

The story tells of a Persian King named Ahasuerus who searched for a new wife and married Esther, a Jewish orphan who was raised by her cousin Mordecai. During the days Esther was in the palace preparing to meet the King, Mordecai would hang around the King’s gate to check in on her. One day, the King’s advisor, Haman, appeared and while the other princes and King’s servants bowed and paid homage to him, Mordecai refused to. This angered Haman so he learned of Mordecai’s Jewish background and commanded that all Jews were to be killed in a massacre. After discovering Haman’s plot to kill, Mordecai informed Queen Esther to stop this plan with the help of the King. King Ahasuerus, who was previously unaware, learned of Esther’s background as a Jew and stopped the plan to destroy her people and consequently, Haman was hung. During these days, the Jews fought against those who  attempted to harm them which lasted over a period of two days thus, Purim is celebrated over the duration of the fight. On the third day, all the Jews feasted and celebrated joyously over the freedom and overturn of the massacre and this tradition still stands today in remembrance of the defeat.

There are usually four parts to the festival known as "Mitzvot".

1. Firstly, Jews are expected to attend the synagogue where the Book of Esther (known as the Megillah) is read out and unlike the usual conduct of a synagogue, Jews are encouraged to make as much noise as possible at the mention of Haman’s name. This includes shouting, stamping feet or shaking rattles known as graggers.
2. Giving to the poor and donating to charity.
3. Sending foods as gifts to one another. ("Mishloach manot" – “sending of portions”)
4. Lastly, having a feast ("Seudat Purim") – this festival is most well-known for the large consumption of alcohol.

What Foods Are Eaten During Purim?

• Specifically, Hamentaschen (the name comes from the triangular hat that belonged to Haman and also represents his ears) is a triangle-shaped pastry most typically filled with poppy seed or prune filling ("Mohn"). The filling is supposed to symbolise the hidden plot to take down Haman.

• Another traditional food is called Kreplach which are small dumplings consisting of meat, mashed potatoes and more.

Figures 1 & 2: Hamentaschen with different fillings

Whether you’re celebrating Purim this year with your family and friends or in lockdown, we wish the Jewish communities all over the world a very joyous occasion!

Read the whole story recorded in the Book of Esther below!

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Esther%201&version=NIV

References and More Information:

https://toriavey.com/what-is-purim/

https://www.theweek.co.uk/91775/purim-2018-what-is-purim-and-how-is-it-celebrated

https://metro.co.uk/2018/03/01/purim-mean-celebrated-7351298/