Topical Bible: Lots, Feast of Purim: The: Mode of Celebrating

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Feast of Purim, also known as the Feast of Lots, is a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The name "Purim" is derived from the word "pur," meaning "lot," referring to the lots cast by Haman to determine the day on which he would execute his plan against the Jews (Esther 3:7).

Biblical Foundation and Historical Context

The celebration of Purim is rooted in the events described in the Book of Esther. Haman, an official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus), sought to destroy the Jews. Through the courage and intervention of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, the plot was thwarted, and the Jewish people were saved. The festival was established to commemorate this deliverance, as Mordecai instructed the Jews to observe the 14th and 15th days of the month of Adar annually (Esther 9:20-22): "Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far, to establish among them an annual celebration on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration."

Mode of Celebrating

The Feast of Purim is characterized by joy and festivity, reflecting the themes of deliverance and divine providence. The celebration includes several key elements:

1. Reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther): Central to the observance of Purim is the public reading of the Megillah, the scroll of Esther. This reading occurs twice, once on the evening of Purim and again the following morning. The congregation listens attentively, and it is customary to make noise with groggers (noisemakers) whenever Haman's name is mentioned, symbolizing the obliteration of his memory.

2. Feasting and Rejoicing: Purim is a time of feasting and joy. Families and communities gather for festive meals, often including traditional foods such as hamantaschen, triangular pastries said to represent Haman's hat or ears. The joyous nature of the feast is emphasized in Esther 9:22 : "as the days on which the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. They were to observe them as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor."

3. Giving of Gifts (Mishloach Manot): Another important aspect of Purim is the exchange of gifts of food and drink, known as mishloach manot. This practice fosters community and friendship, as individuals send packages to friends and family, fulfilling the commandment to "send portions to one another" (Esther 9:22).

4. Charitable Giving (Matanot La'Evyonim): In keeping with the spirit of generosity, Purim includes giving to the poor. This act of charity ensures that everyone, regardless of their means, can partake in the joy of the festival. The emphasis on giving to the needy reflects the broader biblical principle of caring for the less fortunate.

5. Costumes and Masquerades: While not mentioned in the biblical text, the tradition of wearing costumes and masks has become a popular aspect of Purim celebrations. This custom may symbolize the hidden nature of God's intervention in the events of Esther, where His name is notably absent from the text, yet His providence is evident throughout the narrative.

The Feast of Purim serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and protection over His people, encouraging believers to trust in His sovereignty even in times of trial and uncertainty. Through the joyous celebration of Purim, the Jewish community commemorates their historical deliverance and reaffirms their identity and faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Esther 9:17-19,22
On the thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook