PURIM
WHAT THIS DAY IS ABOUT
The This Holy Day was during the reign of King Ahasuerus in the Mede-Persian captivity. Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite (Jews enemy from the seed of Amalek due to his hatred towards Mordecia. He devised a plan against the Jews to destroy them, and cast Pur, i.e.Lots to consume them and to destroy them. Queen Esther made petition to King Ahasuerus to help deliver her people from the hands of Hama. Haman eventually was hung on the same gallows which he built for the purpose of hanging Mordecai.
HOW WE CELEBRATE THIS DAY
The Holy Day commemorated in Esther 9:19 serves as a reminder of deliverance and divine intervention, celebrating the pivotal moment when the Jews triumphed over their enemies through the guidance of the Most High and the courageous actions of Mordecai and Esther. This sacred occasion is marked by feasting, reflecting the joy of survival and the unity found among the people as they gather to recite the scriptures that recount their history.
On this day, the atmosphere is filled with gratitude and reverence, as families and communities come together to celebrate not only the past but also the blessings of the present. The sharing of food plays a significant role, symbolizing abundance and fellowship. Additionally, the practice of sending gifts to one another fosters a spirit of generosity and kinship, reinforcing bonds within the community.
In the unwalled towns, the Jews embraced the fourteenth day of Adar as a day of gladness and rejoicing. As we reflect on the events leading to this momentous celebration, we acknowledge the profound significance of remembrance and the power of unity in overcoming adversity. This Holy Day encapsulates a rich history that continues to resonate, ensuring that the lessons of faith, courage, and communal support endure through the generations.
SCRIPTURES
ESTHER CHAPTER 9