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Purim Ideas
by Sarah Zeldman
When is it?: March 20th-21st in 2008
There are four observances that a required of every Jew on Purim. However, there are also many other customs that have become part of everyone’s celebration of the day too!
The four required obsevances are:
To Hear the Megillah
The Megillah is a parchment scroll that contains the story of Purim in Hebrew. It is read aloud in synagogue on the night of Purim and in the day time. It is required to hear the Megillah read twice during the holiday: once at night and once during the day. The reading is often followed by community Purim parties and meals.
Giving Money to the Poor
Giving tzedukah (charity) is a year-round obligation, but it is especially important to remember the poor on Purim. Jewish people are obligated to give charity to two poor people, or their synagogues may collect the charity and distribute it on their behalf.
Sending Gifts of Food to Friends and Family
On Purim we emphasize the need for Jewish unity and friendship, by sending gifts of food to our friends and family. These gifts are called “Shaloch Manot.” Jews are required to send at least two kinds of ready-to-eat foods to at least two people, though the packages may be more elaborate if desired.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
Purim must also be celebrated with a special festive meal on Purim Day before sundown. Drinking wine or other inebriating drinks at this meal is encouraged to enhance the celebration.
Other Purim Customs
Costumes!
A time-honored Purim custom is for children and adults to wear costumes - an allusion to the fact that the miracle of Purim was hidden in natural events. Many people enjoy dressing as the characters from the Purim story, but just about any costume will do!
Hamentashen
Hamentashen in the food that is most associated with Purim. It is a three-cornered cookie that is traditionally filled with a poppy seed filling or some kind of jam. It is yet another allusion to the hidden nature of the Purim miracle. It is also said that Hamentashen resemble Haman's three-pointed hat or his triangular ears.
MerryMaking
Purim is an holiday where much celebration is encouraged. For example, during service, when the reader of the Megillah mentions Haman, the congregation may make noises -- hissing, stamping, and rattling...
As you can see, Purim is one of the most fun holidays of the Jewish Year. Go hear the Megillah, give tzedukah (charity), send gifts of shaloch manot, and enjoy the traditional meal.
Sarah Zeldman is the co-author of the Purim Guide, filled with all things Purim -- including guides for Shaloch Manot, traditional recipe ideas, and homemade costumes. Check out her guide - Purim Made Easy!
Purim Resources:
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