G-d's faithfulness to the nation of Israel is the essence
of the Purim celebration. When Haman plotted to utterly destroy
the The Jewish community in Persia. G-d intervened to protect and
perserve His people. To Abrahem G-d said in Genesis 17:19 "... I
will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant
and his seed after him." Queen Esther mediated for the lives of
her people. The book of Esther is read. At Purim there is rejoicing
and gifts are given to the poor. The word Purim means "lots" . These
lots determined the fate of individuals.
The megillah (scroll of Esther) is read in the temple. At each
mention of Haman's name, there is booing, and the whirling of the
graggers ( noise-makers). At the mention of Mordecai, a devote
Jew, there is rejoicing.1 Samuel is the Haftorah reading for the
day. Haman was descended from Agag, the Amalekite. Masquerade of
costumes, a drama, gifts and festive activities are all traditional
ways Purim is celebrated. Hamantashin, three-cornered pastries,
are eaten. These pastries are shaped to represent Haman's hat. Purim
celebrates G-d's faithfulness to His Word and the Jewish people..
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