PURIM: BRINGING JOY AND REVELRY TO ARKANSAS

The Jewish holiday of Purim, which falls on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, is a time of joyous celebration and revelry for Jewish communities around the world. This year, Purim began at sundown on March 16th and continued until sundown on March 17th.

The origins of Purim date back to the fifth century BCE when the Jewish people resided in Persia. According to Jewish text, the Persian king Ahasuerus chose Esther, a Jewish woman, to be his queen. When the king’s advisor, Haman, plotted to exterminate the

Jewish people, Esther revealed her hidden Jewish identity and used her influence with the king to save her people.

To honor their deliverance, the Jewish people established the holiday we now call Purim. The name “Purim” comes from the Persian word for “lots,” as Haman cast lots to determine the date on which he would carry out his plan.

Purim is celebrated with a variety of traditions and customs. One of the most memorable aspects of the holiday is the reading of the Book of Esther, also known as the Megillah. The Megillah tells the story of Esther and Haman and is read aloud in synagogues and community centers.

Another important Purim tradition is the exchange of gifts of food and drink, known as mishloach manot. Jewish families and friends give each other baskets or packages filled with sweets, fruits and other treats. This tradition emphasizes the importance of charity and community.

Purim is also a time for dressing up in costumes and masks. Children and adults alike adore festive outfits and participate in parades and parties. This tradition is thought to symbolize the idea that things are not always as they seem, as Esther concealed her true identity until she revealed it to the king.

Synagogues and Jewish communities all across Arkansas took time for feasting and merriment. Jewish Families gathered together for festive meals, often featuring traditional Purim foods such as hamantaschen and triangular-shaped pastries filled with fruit or poppy seeds.

In addition to these customs, Purim is a time for reflection and meditation. Many Jewish communities used the holiday as an opportunity to support local charities and engage in acts of kindness and service.

BY NOAH HOUSEHOLDER