Celebrate Purim: History, Resources and More!
About Purim
Purim is a joyful Jewish holiday that commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia, as told in Megillat Esther (the Book of Esther). It is celebrated with reading the megillah, wearing costumes, sharing generosity, feasting and lots of joy. Purim tells the story of Queen Esther, guided by her cousin Mordechai, who risks her life to reveal the evil plot of Haman, who planned to destroy the Jewish people. Through courage, faith and divine providence, the decree is overturned and the Jews are saved.
Learn more about the story of Purim here.
There are four mitzvot, or commandments, assigned to the holiday of Purim: hearing the megillah, giving gifts to the poor (matanot l’evyonim), giving gifts to friends (mishloach manot) and feasting (seudat Purim). Below, find more information and ways to fulfill these mitzvot during your Purim celebrations.
Reading Megillat Esther
The centerpiece of the communal celebration of Purim is the reading of the Scroll of Esther, the megillah. This is a festive affair, with participants dressing in costume and making lots of noise every time that Haman’s name is mentioned. While clapping and stamping work to drown out the name of the villain, many people also use noisemakers called gragers.
Make your own grager for lots of Purim fun!
In addition to the reading of the scroll, many congregations and communities put on a Purim spiel, or play, which retells the age-old story with a silly and modern twist. Watch Temple spiels from past years here.
Matanot La’Evyonim (Gifts to Those in Need)
The act of tikkun olam, repairing the world, is central to Purim, just as it is in all of Jewish tradition. Find at-home projects to take care of those in need and support our social justice partners here.
It is also a mitzvah to take care of our health, not only physically but also our mental and emotional health. These Purim resources from The Blue Dove Foundation are designed to help you connect with and nurture your truest self during this Purim season.
Mishloach Manot (Gift Baskets)
Jewish families make mishloach manot baskets at home and distribute them to friends. These gifts often include hamantaschen, the traditional three-sided pastry eaten on Purim, but may also include a wide variety of foods and treats. Learn more about hamantaschen and find a recipe to make your own here.
Seudat Purim (Festive Meal)
It’s time to eat! Like many Jewish holidays it is customary to enjoy a festive meal together to mark the holiday or Purim. While there is not a specific dish for a Purim feast, Ashkenazi traditions often feature savory kreplach (dumplings) and sweet hamantaschen, while Sephardic traditions, influenced by Mediterranean cuisine, focus on fried pastries, stuffed vegetables and dishes featuring legumes. Discover Purim foods from around the world here.