This year Purim begins at sunset on Wednesday, March 4, and ends on Thursday evening, March 5.
The story of the joyous holiday of Purim might appear somber at first glance: It tells of the near-destruction of the Jewish people as decreed by Haman, an advisor to the Persian King Ahashuerus. However, Ahashuerus' newly crowned queen, Esther--who replaced Vashti when she was thrown out of the kingdom--is secretly a Jew. Due to her courage and her eventual role in saving the Jews, the story of Purim is recounted in "Megillat Esther," the "Scroll of Esther."
Purim traditions include:
Many people dress up in costume, following the theme of Purim as a holiday of disguise where nothing is quite as it seems. Synagogues and communities hold plays and festivals specifically for the day. Traditionally, a noisemaker or grogger is sounded when Haman's name is said aloud during the Megillah reading.
Adapted from MyJewishLearning
The story of the joyous holiday of Purim might appear somber at first glance: It tells of the near-destruction of the Jewish people as decreed by Haman, an advisor to the Persian King Ahashuerus. However, Ahashuerus' newly crowned queen, Esther--who replaced Vashti when she was thrown out of the kingdom--is secretly a Jew. Due to her courage and her eventual role in saving the Jews, the story of Purim is recounted in "Megillat Esther," the "Scroll of Esther."
Purim traditions include:
- Giving gifts to poor people.
- Reading the Megillah, the Purim story.
- Enjoying a festive meal, or seudah.
- Giving food gifts, called mishloah manot, to our friends.
Many people dress up in costume, following the theme of Purim as a holiday of disguise where nothing is quite as it seems. Synagogues and communities hold plays and festivals specifically for the day. Traditionally, a noisemaker or grogger is sounded when Haman's name is said aloud during the Megillah reading.
Adapted from MyJewishLearning
Celebrate with Yavneh
Adult Megillah Study, Wednesday, March 4, 7:30pm – 10:00pm
We'll look at the Purim Megillah from an adult perspective, while doing our best to blot out the name of Hamen. At Reb Raachel's home. RSVP and directions.
Shabbat / Purim pot-luck dinner and party, Friday, March 6, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Join the Yavneh community for our Shabbat / Purim pot-luck dinner and party. If your last name begins A – F, please bring a side dish; G – N, dessert; O – Z, a main dish. Please keep in mind that many of our attendees prefer vegetarian food, and a few, vegan. Prizes for best adult and children's costumes! Suggested donation $10/individual, $20/family. In Finlator Hall, Pullen Memorial Baptist Church, 801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh (note new location). RSVP by email or through Meetup.