GATEWAYS TO TORAT HAYIM

 
CONNECTING TO JEWISH LIVING WISDOM RESOURCES

 

How to Celebrate Purim

by Ohr Somayach

Purim is celebrated on the 14th of Adar

(which occurs this year on MONDAY night March 6th and TUESDAY March 7th 2023).

It commemorates our nation’s miraculous salvation more than two millennia ago.

 

We celebrate Purim with 4 distinct mitzvot:

 

1. 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.

 

2. Give to the Needy (Matanot LaEvyonim) – Give money or food to at least two needy people during the daylight hours of Purim.

 

3. Send 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, send a package containing at least two different ready-to-eat food items and/or beverages to at least one Jewish acquaintance during the daylight hours.

 

4. Feast! During the course of Purim day, celebrate with a festive Purim meal with family and friends.