PURIM HOW-TO The joyous holiday of Purim (March 23-24) marks the Divinely orchestrated victory of the Jewish people over Haman’s genocidal plot. The name “Purim,” derived from the ancient Persian word for “lots,” reflects Haman’s use of casting lots to determine the date of his sinister plan, as documented in the Book of Esther. Here’s how we celebrate today:
THURSDAY, 11 ADAR II MARCH 21 PERFECT PURIM PREP Ta’anit Esther (observed early this year) is a fast day that commemorates the fast observed by Esther. Unlike Yom Kippur, this fast is a custom, therefore, if you have any health issues, contact your Rabbi for guidance.
HALF SHEKEL ANYONE? It is customary to give three half dollars to charity. This custom is in memory of the half shekel given by Jews in Temple times. This biblical tax supported the supply of Divine offerings used in the Temple service. Spiritually, the half shekel reminds us that G-d Himself is our other “half,” and He completes us by making us His partners in perfecting creation. The sages advise us to give three half shekels since the Hebrew word terumah donation, and the words “half a shekel,” are mentioned three times in the Torah.
SHABBAT, 13 ADAR II MARCH 23 REMINDER TO FORGET! Do Not Forget: The Shabbat before Purim is called Zachor, because Zachor means to remember, and the Torah commands us to “Remember to blot out the name of Amalek.” Haman (a great grandson of Amalek) is blotted out with graggers while reading the Megilah on Purim.
PURIM NIGHT, SATURDAY, 13 ADAR II MARCH 23 THE MEGILAH SHE WROTE Head to your local Chabad for a reading of the whole Megilah. The Megilah, a.k.a. “The Book of Esther,” is the scroll that tells the Purim story. In her letter to the Jews, Queen Esther asked that we listen to the reading of the Megilah twice: once on Purim night, and again on Purim day.
BOOOOO! Custom: When Haman’s name is mentioned (Chabad custom is that this is only when it is accompanied with a title), you can twirl graggers (noisemakers) or stamp your feet to eradicate his evil name. Artwork by Yehuda Lang. View the full Yehuda Lang gallery online at www.yehudalang.com
Purim 5784 / 2024