How many days till Purim?

How many days till Purim?

A summary

Purim commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman as described in the Book of Esther. Purim is celebrated by listening to the Book of Esther in a synagogue, sending food parcels and giving charity. People dress up in costume, eat festive meals, and visit parties and parades. Alcoholic beverages, in particular wine, are consumed during Purim.

Purim is celebrated annually.

Date and days to Purim

The calendar date and days to go until Purim are as follows:

What is Purim?

Purim is a festive and joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them in ancient Persia, as described in the biblical Book of Esther. Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which typically falls in February or March.

What is special about Purim?

Key aspects of Purim include:

• The Story of Esther: The holiday’s origins are found in the Book of Esther, which tells the story of Queen Esther, a Jewish woman, and her cousin Mordecai. Esther concealed her Jewish identity and became the queen of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). Haman, the king’s adviser, plotted to exterminate the Jewish population in Persia. However, Esther and Mordecai, with divine intervention, thwarted Haman’s plans, and the Jewish people were saved.
• Reading the Megillah: The central observance of Purim is the reading of the “Megillah” (the Book of Esther) in the synagogue. The Megillah is read twice during Purim: once in the evening (known as the “Megillah reading”) and again in the morning. Whenever Haman’s name is mentioned during the reading, it is traditional for the congregation to make noise and use noisemakers (called “graggers”) to drown out his name, symbolizing the desire to blot out his memory.
• Costumes and Masquerades: One of the fun aspects of Purim is dressing up in costumes and masks. This tradition is inspired by the fact that Esther concealed her identity until the right moment. Children and adults often dress as characters from the Purim story or in various creative costumes.
• Mishloach Manot: On Purim, it is customary to exchange gifts of food and treats known as “Mishloach Manot.” People send these gifts to friends, family, and neighbors as a gesture of friendship and unity. It typically includes a minimum of two different types of food.
• Giving to the Needy: Another important aspect of Purim is giving to the less fortunate. This is known as “Matanot LaEvyonim,” which means giving gifts to the poor. It is considered a mitzvah (a good deed) to provide for those in need during the holiday.
• Feasting and Celebration: Purim is a time for festive meals and gatherings. Traditional foods, such as “hamantaschen” (triangular-shaped pastries filled with various fillings) and other treats, are enjoyed.
• Adloyada: In some Jewish communities, there are public parades and carnivals known as “Adloyada,” where people dress in costumes, play music, and celebrate in the streets.

Purim is a joyful holiday that emphasizes the themes of salvation, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. It encourages celebration, charity, and the strengthening of communal bonds. The message of Purim is that even in the face of adversity, miracles can happen, and people have the power to overcome challenges.

Frequently asked questions about Purim

More information about Purim can be found here.

All days and dates are based on Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)