What Is Purim?

Purim is the festive holiday celebrating the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia, as recounted in the Book of Esther. Marked by costumes, revelry, gift-giving, and the reading of the Megillah, it is one of the most joyous days in the Jewish calendar.

The Story

referring to the lots Haman cast to choose the date for the genocide.

Queen Esther, a Jew who had hidden her identity, learned of the plot from her cousin Mordechai. Risking her life, she revealed her Judaism to the king and exposed Haman's scheme. The decree was reversed—the Jews were saved, and Haman was hanged.

וְנַהֲפוֹךְ הוּא אֲשֶׁר יִשְׁלְטוּ הַיְּהוּדִים הֵמָּה בְּשֹׂנְאֵיהֶם

Translation: And it was reversed: the Jews prevailed over their enemies. (Esther 9:1)

The Four Mitzvot of Purim

Reading the Megillah

The Scroll of Esther is read publicly twice—evening and morning. When Haman's name is mentioned, noisemakers (graggers) drown it out.

Mishloach Manot

Sending food gifts (at least two items) to friends, strengthening community bonds.

Matanot La'evyonim

Gifts to the poor—at minimum, to two people. This is considered the most important Purim mitzvah.

Seudah (Festive Meal)

A joyous feast, often with wine, celebrating the salvation.

Customs

Costumes

Children (and adults!) dress in costumes, reflecting the theme of hidden identities in the story.

Hamantaschen

) filled with poppy seeds, jam, or chocolate.

Drinking

cursed is Haman

blessed is Mordechai.

(Interpreted variously from literal to symbolic.)

Purim Spiel

Comic theatrical performances retelling the story or satirizing community figures.

Hidden Miracles

God's name never appears in the Book of Esther. The miracles are hidden within seemingly natural events. Purim teaches that divine providence operates even when invisible—that what appears as coincidence may be salvation unfolding.