Purim Designs

Purim is one of the most popular Jewish holidays for families and children (of all ages). There is feasting and gladness, gift-giving and tzedakah (charity), revelry and drinking (in moderation).

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Purim is a holiday based on the Book of Esther. Queen Esther of Persia bravely revealed her Jewish identity saving the Jews from extinction by the evil, Haman, adviser to the King. (Poo poo poo - his name is blotted out.) 

2. Purim is like Mardi Gras, Easter, and Halloween all rolled into one. You wear costumes so your identity is hidden. "Masks and costumes show that truth always lies beneath the surface, that the physical world conceals the true spiritual reality." HaShem is not mentioned once in the Book of Esther, the Megillah. But, we know that G-d's divine guidance influences the story (Rabbi Mordechai Becher).

3. Drinking alcohol is encouraged, in moderation. "A person is obligated to drink on Purim," says the Talmud, "until he does not know the difference between 'Cursed be Haman' and 'Blessed be Mordechai'."

4. The Book of Esther, Megillat Esther, is read in the synagogue. It's a mitzvah to hear it. During the reading, when Haman's name is mentioned, congregants boo, hiss, stamp their feet and wave gragers (noisemakers) to drown out his name.