What is Purim?

Purim, which literally means "batch" in Hebrew, is a Jewish holiday reminiscent of the rescue of Jews living in Persia before some destruction in the hands of Haman, the evil Persian nobleman. Haman believed that the Jewish leader on behalf of Mordechai did not show enough respect in his court. Haman and his wife Zeresh, supported by this lack of obedience, created a plan to kill Mordechai and all his fellow citizens. Special land, or Purim, would be thrown to determine the real day when this defeat would begin. Esther and Mordechai threatened their lives to reveal Haman's land and save the Jews from a certain death. Haman himself would later be hung on the same gallows he built for Mordechai. Details of this Jewish salvation from the evil Haman were recorded in the book Esther, also called Megillah of Esther.

Jewish holiday Purim is now celebrated on 14th day Adar in the Jewish calendarI, which usually coincides with the day in March. The Jews first observe the fasting Esther the day before Purim, then the real holiday begins with reading Megillah or Book of Esther that evening. The second public reading from Megillah or Book of Esther is Purim in the morning. Participants of these readings can see, sync or shake a special rattle whenever Haman's name is mentioned.

The rest of the holiday Purim is spent at different stages of festivities and charity events. One tradition of Purim includes the creation of a food plate or basket for neighbors and local charity organizations. During Purim, many participants wear colored costumes and masks on the streets. Another informal tradition during Purim is satirical reading of the fonts, ten acted as part of a disrespectful form of music theater. It is said that Yiddish theater tradition has grown out of such purims and songs.

Purim holidays end with a special dinner called SEUDAT PURIM. Although many Jewish religious leaders promote certain restrictions duringPurima, participants often participate in a large amount of wine during Spa Purim and the celebrations can continue well into the night. Although this is not considered the main Jewish holiday, Purim is still considered the day of joy and memories of the bold actions of Queen Esther and Mordechai against Haman.