Purim is a merry day in the Jewish calendar
Haman tried to annihilate all the Jews, and G-d saved us with a series of hidden miracles
What are the 4 mitzvot to do on Purim?
1. Listen to the reading of the Megillah.
Megillah, also known as the ‘Book of Esther’ is a handwritten scroll on which the story of Purim is written. It is a mitzvah to listen to it twice, first on Purim night, and then the following day. You can hear it in your local synagogue, and it takes about 30-45 mins.
It is crucial to listen carefully and hear every word. There is a custom to make a noise after the infamous ‘Haman’ is mentioned. Children do this with graggers, firecrackers and an assortment of fun noise-making devices. Stamping your feet will also do the job well.
2. Give charity to the poor—Matanot L’evyonim
The mitzvah is to give money or food to at least two needy people during the daylight hours of Purim, March 17. It should be enough money or food for a decent meal. In case you can’t find any needy people, you can donate here and your donation will be given to needy families in Israel on Purim day.
The special theme on Purim is “Whoever stretches out his hand, we give to him”. We don’t look at their finances, we just give. So too, Purim is an auspicious time to ask G-d for whatever you want.
3. Send food gifts to friends—Mishloach Manot
The mitzvah is to send at least 2 ready-to-eat items of food or drink, or one of each. E.g: danish and iced-coffee, to at least one person. (Of course, you can send to more people and will get an extra mitzvah for each one you send). It is better to send it through a messenger rather than by yourself. One of the reasons for this mitzvah is to increase love and friendship amongst the Jewish people.
4. Feast and happiness—Mishteh V’Simcha
The mitzvah is to have a festive meal, where we wash on bread, eat meat and drink wine. The custom is to eat kreplach (meat wrapped in pastry) to show that it’s a hidden Yom Tov, where we are allowed to do melacha. We eat together with a crowd to bring more celebration and happiness.
Do your mitzvah of matanot L’evyonim in the simplest, best way. Donate now, and your money will go to a needy family in Israel on Purim day.