Purim is one of the most joyful and festive holidays in the Hebrew calendar. Rooted in themes of survival, gratitude, and charity, it unites Jewish communities worldwide in a celebration of resilience, acts of kindness or chesed, and Jewish charity.
What Is Purim and Why Is It Celebrated?
Purim is a holiday deeply rooted in the history of Jewish faith. Born from the narrative of the Book of Esther, it commemorates the miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people from the chief advisor to King Ahasuerus of the Achaemenid Empire, Haman’s plot to destroy them. Their salvation is celebrated as a triumph of unity and faith. We continue to observe Purim as a lasting testament to the power of resilience, the strength of community, and the enduring presence of divine intervention.
When Is Purim Celebrated?
Purim is celebrated on the 14th of the Jewish month of Adar, approximately one month before Passover. In 2026, Purim will begin after sunset on Monday March 2 and end the evening of Tuesday March 3. In certain walled cities like Jerusalem, the holiday is observed on the 15th day of Adar. This discrepancy originates from the historical practice of cities defending themselves against attackers, leading to a delay in the celebration for those within walled boundaries.
How Is Purim Celebrated?
Many Purim traditions are eagerly anticipated by the community, including the customs of eating festive foods like hamantaschen and dressing up in costumes. Both adults and children embrace this tradition, often donning creative outfits inspired by characters from the Purim story — it’s common to see many regal Queen Esthers and villainous Hamans. Also central to the celebration are four mitzvot, essential commandments that define the observance of Purim.
The 4 Mitzvot of Purim
Mitzvah of Mishloach Manot
The mitzvah of mishloach manot (mishloach manot meaning) involves sending food packages for Jewish holidays gift giving to family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers on the day of Purim to ensure everyone has what they need to celebrate. The mitzvah is rooted in the Book of Esther, where it symbolizes the opposite of Haman’s claim that the Jewish people were “scattered and divided.” By exchanging gifts, Jews strengthen their bonds and demonstrate solidarity with one another.
The tradition has evolved to include sending Mishloach Manot to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, and the best charities to support Israel, as a sign of support and appreciation. The mitzvah emphasizes emphasizes the Judaism social impact of the importance of community and each package must include at least two types of food items, such as baked goods, fruits, and beverages. This meaningful mitzvah reflects the holiday’s spirit of virtue generosity, unity, and celebration.
A Classic Purim Tradition and Mitzvah: Matanot L’evyonim
Matanot L’evyonim is a Purim tradition and mitzvah rooted in the value of tzedakah and commanded in the Book of Esther. The mitzvah, which translates to “gifts to the poor,” involves giving to two needy individuals to demonstrate generosity and solidarity. This obligation applies to men, women, and children over six — even the poor are required to give, often to each other, to fulfill the mitzvah.
The minimum for Matanot L’evyonim is the cost of a meal, though it’s customary to give more if possible. The focus reflects teachings of the Torah on generosity and helping those in need. Funds for this mitzvah cannot come from those meant for Ma’aser Kesafim (tithes). While it’s customary to give locally, donating to the top Jewish charities/Jewish nonprofits can extend your impact to include Jewish charities for the poor.
A Purim Tradition and Mitzvah: Reading of the Megillah
Reading of the Megillah, the public reading of the Book of Esther, is a central mitzvah of Purim, commemorating the Jewish people’s salvation from Haman’s plot in the Persian Empire. This story, part of the Hebrew Bible’s Megillot, highlights themes of courage, divine providence, and resilience. The Megillah is read twice during Purim — once in the evening and again the following morning — ensuring the story is fully heard. Traditionally chanted in synagogue, the reading often includes noisemakers to drown out Haman’s name. All Jewish adults are obligated to listen, and involving children fosters their understanding of this significant tradition.
Purim Seudah: A Special Purim Tradition
Finally, the most celebratory of the Purim mitzvot is the Purim Seudah, the festive meal. This special gathering provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together and reflect on the holiday’s central themes of deliverance, joy, and gratitude. The meal is characterized by rich, festive foods and lively conversation. Traditionally, wine or other alcoholic beverages are served to heighten the celebration.
Purim Tradition: Acts of Charity on Purim
Purim, a celebration of joy and deliverance, also highlights the values of unity and community that are central to Jewish traditions. These themes come to life through acts of tzedakah, whether you donate to Jewish charities, support Jewish and top Israeli charities and nonprofits that support Israel, volunteering your time for causes such as Pantry Packers, or advancing Tikkun Olam meaning, “the repairing of the world.” While tzedakah charity is a cornerstone of Judaism, it is guided by principles that emphasize varying levels of giving, each representing greater selflessness and generosity. The fun and celebratory nature of Purim also makes it an ideal time of the teaching children about charity, fostering a lifelong commitment to helping others.
Why the 4 Mitzvot of Purim Matter: Support Colel Chabad
Established in 1788, Colel Chabad is the longest continuously running Chabad charity and tzedakah network in Israel. For over two centuries, it has served as a cornerstone of charitable support.
Colel Chabad provides essential services including:
Every donation directly contributes to making a real difference, helping you donate to poor in Israel by delivering critical resources to those who need them most.
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