There is an old saying that many of my friends tell me on a regular basis. It goes something like this: "They tried to kill us, we survived, now let's eat!" This can be heard at the table at many of the Jewish dinners of my friends and family. Purim is one of those festive occasions that is more of a national celebration than a religious tenor.
Purim is a celebration of the deliverance of the Jewish people from the Persian Empire. Haman concocted a plot to destroy all of the Jews in his empire. Thankfully, the plot was foiled and the people escaped. The story is written down in the biblical account of Esther.
The traditions of Purim are joyful in nature. According to the book of Esther, to celebrate this holiday you need to adhere to the following customs: listen to the daily reading (from the book of Esther on this day), send food gifts to friends, give charity to the poor, and have a festive meal. These are the obligations of Purim. How could that be anything BUT a joyful holiday?
Purim gift baskets are now a traditional part of the celebration. These baskets are given to friends in the fulfillment of the obligation of "sending of portions from one man to another." These baskets, traditionally filled with the sustenance of the day, are now usually filled with candy gifts such as dried fruits and nuts and chocolate pretzels.
These gifts are given before the festive meal called "De'udat Purim" where the drinking of wine is featured. Purim is also marked by the wearing of masks and costumes. This can be dated back to the time of the 15th century in Italy. Jovial holiday featuring masks, costumes, and candy, how could that be a bad idea?
Usually at Purim, the baskets of bulk dried fruit and other candy gifts are not the only part of the celebration. A custom exists where every Jew, regardless of financial standing, MUST give charity to at least two others. This charity can be monetary or enough food that would be the equivalent of one meal. It is generally practiced that money, and not food is given as charity.
Friends celebrate together in a fun, loving, and candy filled manner on Purim. It is a joyful holiday that involves candy, wine, costumes, a big meal, and maybe most importantly, charity. They tried to kill us, we survived, let's eat!
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