The Easiest Day Of The Year To Be A Good Jew
Did you know that tonight and tomorrow we celebrate one of the happiest days on the Jewish calendar?
Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian empire from Haman’s plot “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day.” It is celebrated with Megillah readings, gifts of food, charity, feasting, and merriment. The mitzvot of Purim are so easy to perform.... so go ahead and be a good Jew.
P.S. You can perform all four mitzvot when joining us tomorrow night for International International Purim.
The Four Mitzvot of Purim
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Food Gifts to Friends (Mishloach Manot)
On Purim we emphasize the importance of friendship and community by sending gifts of food to friends. On Purim day, March 7, send a package containing at least two different ready-to-eat food items and/or beverages (e.g., pastry, fruit, beverage) to at least one Jewish acquaintance during the daylight hours of Purim. Men send to men, and women to women. -
Feast!
During the course of Purim day, March 7, gather your family, maybe invite a guest or two, and celebrate with a festive Purim meal. Traditionally, this meal begins before sundown and lasts well into the evening.
Or be our guest and join Chabad of White Marsh at our Purim Around The World Feast -
Hear the Megillah
The Megillah, a.k.a. “The Book of Esther,” is the scroll that tells the Purim story. Listen to the public reading twice: once on Purim night, and again on Purim day. This year, that’s Monday night, March 6 and Tuesday, March 7. Pay attention—it is crucial to hear every word.
When Haman’s name is mentioned you can twirl graggers (noisemakers) or stamp your feet to eradicate his evil name. Tell your kids that Purim is the only time when it’s encouraged to make noise during services! -
Give to the Needy (Matanot LaEvyonim)
One of Purim’s primary themes is Jewish unity. Haman tried to kill us all, we were all in danger together, so we celebrate together too. Hence, on Purim day we place special emphasis on caring for the less fortunate.Give money or food to at least two needy people during the daylight hours of Purim, March 7. In case you can’t find any needy people, your synagogue will likely be collecting money for this purpose. At least, place two coins in a charity box earmarked for the poor.
Join Us For Purim Around The World
Tzvi Schectman