HOW WE CELEBRATE

Adar, the month in which Purim falls, is considered lucky and joyful. Festivities and merriment often are planned for the first day of the month. Slogans such as, "Be Happy - It's Adar!" are heard, and we sing the Hebrew song, "Mi’sheh Nichnas Adar, Marbim Besimcha," (When Adar arrives, rejoicing increases). Adar is a great time to sharpen your comic skills!

Four mitzvot comprise the ritual of Purim day. They are:

• Listen to the reading of Megillat Esther. This usually takes place in synagogue, where children and adults dress in costume and come equipped with groggers (noisemakers) to drown out the name of Haman whenever it is mentioned during the reading.
• Send mishloach manot (gifts of food) to friends. Mishloach manot recall the celebrations of Jews in ancient Shushan, Persia, where the Purim story occurred. At least two kinds of ready-to-eat foods, upon which two different blessings may be made, are sent to at least one friend. Customary mishloach manot items include hamantashen, the three-cornered filled pastry reminiscent of Haman's hat (or ears, if you use the Hebrew term "Oznai Haman" - Haman's ears), candy, dried fruits, nuts, juice, or wine. The gift usually is sent in a decorated container.
• Give matanot le'evyonim (gifts to the needy) to remind us of Purim celebrations of the Jews of Shushan. Donate at least a small amount of money to at least two individuals or two charitable funds. In all the fun and excitement of Purim, matanot le'evyonim remind us that sharing joy with others is a Jewish value.
• Enjoy a Purim Se'udah (festive meal), which is prescribed in the Book of Esther. The meal usually is held late in the afternoon of Purim day. No special kiddush is recited, but Al HaNissim, a special prayer, thanking G-d for Purim miracles, is added to the Birkat Hamazon (grace after meals), and the daily synagogue services.
• Another Purim tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is the Purim "shpiel" (play) that traditionally is presented as a parody or farcical version of the Purim story. Puppets also are common at Purim. Nahfoch Hu" (events planned by Haman) were turned upside-down and topsy-turvy, says the Megillah, which well summarizes the spirit of Purim!