Purim

Purim is an annual Jewish festival that celebrates the survival of the Jewish people during the ancient Persian Empire, as recorded in the Biblical book of Esther. This Observance holds great significance for it typically includes public feasts, charitable giving, merriment, and other joyous traditions. A central aspect is the recitation of the book of Esther, known as Megillah, typically done at synagogue.

The origins of Purim can be traced back circa 400 BCE, during the reign of Persian King Ahasuerus. The story goes that Haman, a royal official, plotted to annihilate all Jews living throughout the Persian Empire. Nevertheless, due to the intervention of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, the Jews were spared, and Haman was executed instead. For the Jewish people in Israel, Purim acts as a powerful reminder of this triumph against all odds, reinforcing themes of unity, perseverance, and pride in their resilient heritage.

In Israel, Purim is traditionally celebrated with grand carnivals, colorful costumes, and street parties radiating festive energy. During this time, it is customary for children, and sometimes adults, to don costumes, celebrating the concealment of identities that is part of the Purim tale. Delicious triangle-shaped pastries known as Hamantaschen, after Haman, are also prepared and savored during the festival. Amidst more pious rituals, like giving to the needy and participating in communal feasts, a lighter note is struck with "Purim Shpiels," humorous plays and satires. In accordance with the Hebrew calendar, Purim occurs in the month of Adar and is traditionally observed on the 14th day, mirroring the joyous aftermath of the Jews' deliverance as recounted in the Scripture. In Jerusalem, however, the Observance takes place a day later, on the 15th of Adar, a distinction stemming from its status as a city that has been walled since the time of Joshua.