Purim

Purim is celebrated with a public reading of the Scroll of Esther (M’gillat Esther), which tells the story of the holiday. Under the rule of King Ahashverosh, Haman, the king’s prime minister, plots to exterminate all of the Jews of Persia. His plan is foiled by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai, who ultimately save the Jews of Persia from destruction. The reading of the m’gillah typically is a rowdy affair, punctuated by booing and noise-making when Haman’s name is read aloud.

Purim is an unusual holiday in many respects. First, Esther is the only biblical book in which God is not mentioned. Second, Purim, like Chanukah, traditionally is viewed as a minor festival, but elevated to a major holiday as a result of the Jewish historical experience. Over the centuries, Haman became the embodiment of every anti-Semite in every land where Jews were oppressed. The significance of Purim lies not so much in how it began, but in what it has become: a thankful and joyous affirmation of Jewish survival against all odds.

• History
• Customs and Rituals

HOW-TO VIDEOS FOR PURIM

Here are three creative ideas for themed mishloach manot (Purim gift baskets).

Three Creative ideas for themed mishloach manot

More Purim videos:

• Video: Easy and Unique Hamantaschen
• Video: How to make Purim Groggers
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PURIM FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Celebrating Purim with Shalom Sesame: Baking Hamantaschen

Purim has its own special cookie, called a hamantaschen, which has three corners just like Haman's hat. Together with your children, watch the Shalom Sesame videos to learn about Purim and the tradition of baking hamantaschen, then try some of the discussion ideas and activities recommended by Reform Jewish educators.

• Quiz: Which Purim Character are you?
• Quiz: How Much to you Know about Purim?
• Quick Costume Ideas for Purim
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PURIM FOOD & RECIPES

Hamantaschen de Panama

• Vegan Purim Pasta
• Chocolate Filled Hamantaschen
• Hamantaschen Dough
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