Purim

PURIM

Adar 14 ~ February 28, 2010

Historically:

The Persian empire of the 4th century BC extended over 127 lands, and all the Jews were its subjects. When King Ahasuerus had his wife, Queen Vashti, executed for failing to follow his orders, he orchestrated a beauty pageant to find a new queen. A Jewish girl, Hadassah (Esther), found favor in his eyes and became the new queen—though she refused to divulge the identity of her nationality.

Meanwhile, the anti-Semitic Haman was appointed prime minister of the empire. Mordechai, the leader of the Jews (and Hadassah's cousin) defied the king's orders and refused to bow to Haman. Haman was incensed and convinced the king to issue a decree ordering the extermination of all the Jews on the 13th of Adar—a date chosen by a lottery Haman made. Purim means "lots." The name commemorates the lots that Haman cast to choose the day most suitable for the destruction of the Jews.

Mordechai galvanized all the Jews, convincing them to repent, fast and pray to G-d. Meanwhile, Hadassah asked the king and Haman to join her for a feast. At the feast, Hadassah revealed to the king her Jewish identity. Haman was hanged, Mordechai was appointed prime minister in his stead, and a new decree was issued—granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies.

On the 13th of Adar the Jews mobilized and killed many of their enemies. On the 14th of Adar they rested and celebrated.

Currently:

History always repeats itself. Especially for the Jews. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khomeini this week again threatened to destroy Israel and warned that Iran will unveil a "punch" that will stun the infidels in the West. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has announced that Iran will enrich part of its uranium stockpile to 20%, moving steadily and aggressively to creating weapons-grade uranium capable of producing nuclear bombs. Now is the time for us to get on our faces and seek the Lord's grace and mercy for Israel, Iran and the people of the middle east.

Observances:

~Reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther), which recounts the story of the Purim miracle.

~Giving money gifts to the poor.

~Sending gifts of food to friends.

~A festive Purim feast. It is also customary for children to dress up in disguising costumes.

*information taken from Chabad.org and November Communications