Purim is considered the “jolly” Jewish holiday and is celebrated this year from Thursday night, February 25 through Friday the 26th…and extending through Sunday in Jerusalem.

According to Chabad.org, Purim “commemorates the (Divinely orchestrated) salvation of the Jewish people in the ancient Person empire from Haman’s plot to ‘destroy, kill and annihilate all Jews, young and old, infants and women in a single day.’ Purim, literally, ‘lots’ in ancient Persian, was thus named since Haman had thrown lots to determine when he would carry out his scheme.” Esther, the king’s wife—and a Jew—revealed Haman’s plot to the king. The king ordered that Haman should be hanged. A decree was issued by the king, granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies. The day after they killed many of their enemies, the Jews rested and celebrated. Purim commemorates this event—that God, through a Jewish queen, saved his people.

There are four “mitzvahs” or God-commanded duties that should be performed in honor of Purim:

1. Jews go to their synagogue and listen to the book of Esther read twice: once on Purim night and once again on Purim day. When Haman’s name is read, people twirl noisemakers or stamp their feet to “eradicate his evil name”.

2. Give to the needy - According to Chabad.org, this involves giving money or food to two needy people during the daylight hours of Purim. If you cannot find any needy people, the synagogue often collects money for this purpose. Even small children fulfill this mitzvah.

3. Send food to friends - Purim emphasizes the importance of community and friendship. This is done by sending gifts of food to friends. Children make enthusiastic messengers.

4. Feast! - Celebrate the holiday with a festive meal. Often families sing, drink, laugh, and have fun together.

Another fun component of this holiday is the tradition of children and some adults dressing in costumes The costumes should be good and cheerful characters, such as Esther and her uncle Mordecai. (Chabad.org)

So, after the year we have all had—we need a celebration! Let’s celebrate Purim with feasting, song, and joy, knowing that we serve a God who protects His children.

That is plenty reason for a celebration!