Ray of Sunshine. art

The Jewish festival of Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of Adar which translates to some time during the month of March. At its core the celebration is for the book of Esther and how the Jewish people were saved from Haman and his anti-sematic views and desire to exterminate them. With the help of Mordecai, Queen Ester is able to intervene through the King to save her people. For a full understanding of what took place read the book of Esther.

The 4 Mitzvot’s of Purim

There are four things ones must do in order to celebrate Purim

1. The Megilah: This is where the retelling of the story of Esther occurs. People are instructed to read the book of Esther twice, once in the morning and once in the evening. My favorite part of this how everyone boo’s and makes noise when Haman’s name is mentioned in order to blot him out of history.
2. Misholach Manot: In order to increase love and friendship amongst the community people are to send gifts of at least two food items to their friends. Some make these beautiful baskets of food and displays for their friends.
3. Matanot La’evyomim: This is a time to give back to those in need. Sufficient funds should be given to two different recipients in order for them to be able to purchase a meal for themselves. There are many ways to do this anonymously through places of worship and other community centers.
4. Seudah: This is the celebration piece where you invite friends and family over for food and drinks. Some places of worship even host these events.
   • People may dress in costumes in order to hide their identity as the identity of God is not reviled during the book of Esther.
   • A desert called Hamantaschen is served which are small triangle shaped pastries. These are said to look like Haman’s ears.

Celebrating Purim as a Gentile shows that you stand with the Jewish people against anti-semitism while sharing the Good News, praying for peace in Israel, and being a believer in Yeshua (Jesus).

Leave a comment below with how you plan to study Esther or celebrate Purim!