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Purim
Alvin Stern
This month, as we prepare for the holiday of Purim, we will discuss the few
rituals associated with this very minor holiday. The most important one is to
hear the reading of the Megillah, the Book of Esther, which is read from a scroll,
written without vowels or trop symbols. This reading is done both in the evening
and again in the morning. It is one of very few commandments that are required
to be done at specific times that are incumbent on men, women and children.
Since all the people of Persia were saved from destruction, we all have to hear
the story and celebrate. On Purim, we collect the shekalim which were originally
used for a census count. Each person brought a half shekel, and the funds raised
went to maintain the Temple. In our day, the shekalim are used for worthy causes.
During the reading, there are several verses that are recited by the congregation
before the Reader: Chapter 2, Verse 5, when Mordechai is introduced, Chapter
8, Verse 15 relating Mordechai’s status at the end of the story, and the next
verse “LaYehudim Hayta Orah v’Simcha v’Simcha v”Yikar,” the Jews had
light and gladness, joy and honor (which we recite every week as part of Havdalah)
and the final verse of the Book in Chapter 10. Certain verses or parts of verses
are chanted in the melody of Eicha (Lamentations) to connote a degree
of sadness or impending doom; otherwise the trop used is unique to Esther.
On Purim, we exchange gifts with our friends. The gifts are called Shalach
Manot and are packages that contain at least two different edibles, often Hamentashen,
candy and/or fruit. Many people make their own Shalach Manot packages. Our Sisterhood
prepares packages and distributes them shortly before Purim. Judaism teaches
us to share our joy; it is also customary to give tzedakah on Purim (known as
Matanot L’evyonim).
Many drink alcohol on Purim, as did King Achashverosh. Some drink to the point
of “adloyadah” (not knowing the difference between blessing Mordechai
and cursing Haman)! This “command” can be easily fulfilled simply going to sleep!
In former times, it was customary to present a Purim Schpiel which is a farcical
look at a scholar or other popular figures. Costumes are often worn on Purim.
A Seudah (festive meal) is held late in the afternoon of Purim, again
copied from the banquets that Esther hosted for the King and Haman (at which
she revealed her identity and Haman’s plot).
Finally, since Purim comes exactly one month before Pesach, we have one last
blast before getting down to the hard work of cleansing our houses for Pesach,
purchasing all that we will need and preparing for the holiday. It is my custom
to chant the last verse of Megilat Esther to the tune of El Biney from
the Seder to remind us of the approach of the holiday that truly liberated us! |
