The Story of Purim
Jewish morale was at an all time low. The Temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed, the nation conquered and for almost 70 years, had been dispersed in foreign lands. The prophesied end of Exile had not materialised and the blight of assimilation had set in.
Just then, the enemy arose to carry out his evil plans. This time it was Haman. Descended from the Jew-hating tribe of Amalek, Haman devised his scheme to solve ‘the Jewish problem’ once and for all, by annihilating every Jew, men, women and children, throughout the world, in a single day.
It almost worked. Were it not for Mordechai. A descendant of King Saul and advisor to King Achashverosh. Mordechai sensed the danger. Donning sackcloth and ashes, he went to the gate of the palace, crying aloud, rallying the Jews to return to the Torah.
His cousin, Queen Esther, called for him. He told her that she must go to the King and plead for her people. Officially in disfavour, she feared to go, but saw that she had no choice. She undertook a three day fast of penitence and called upon the whole Jewish people to do likewise. Then she went to the King…
It is a story of great courage and self-sacrifice—first and foremost by Queen Esther and Mordechai and ultimately by the whole Jewish nation. For throughout the duration of the whole year, not one single Jew chose to convert, even to save his life. The nation was awakened to a wholehearted return to Torah and Mitzvot and throughout the year strengthened their faith and observance.
In the merit of this, they were able to rise up against their enemies and destroy them, on the 13th of Adar, the very day destined for the ‘final solution’. The Jewish people had shown their true character. They had earned the right to leave exile, return to the Holy Land and rebuild the temple.
How to Celebrate Purim
Listen To The Megillah
To relive the miracle of Purim, we listen to the reading of the Megillah. When Haman’s name is mentioned we twirl ‘graggers’ and stamp our feet to ‘drown out’ his evil name. The Megillah will be read at 6.30 pm on Monday 2nd March and at 9.30 am and 5.00 pm on Tuesday 3rd March at Solihull Shul.
Give Gifts To The Needy
Concern for the needy is a year-round responsibility for every Jew. On Purim, particularly, it is a special mitzvah to remember the poor. It is customary to donate money to at least two charities which work directly with poor people on Purim. Any money received will be distributed to needy people on Purim. To make a donation scan the QR code or click here.
Send Gifts of Food
On Purim we emphasise the importance of Jewish unity and friendship by sending gifts of food to friends. Send a gift of two or more kinds of ready-to-eat foods, to at least one friend.
Eat The Festive Meal
As on all Festivals, we celebrate Purim with a special festive meal, when family and friends gather together to rejoice in the Purim spirit. There will be a special Purim Meal at 5.00 pm on Tuesday 3rd March at Solihull Jewish Community Cetntre.