What is Purim?
The celebration of Purim celebrates Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, two Jews who saved the entire nation of Israel from annihilation. In the land of Persia in the 4th century BCE, Esther and Mordecai risked their lives to go before the King to save the nation of Israel from the evil Prime Minister Haman. The story is full of adventure, royal court scenes, bravery, treachery and the hand of God. Mordecai instituted the holiday of Purim (named for the lots or “pur” that Haman cast to determine the date of destruction) in remembrance of the redemption of the Jewish people from Haman’s plot.
Today, we celebrate the story of Esther and Mordecai as a reminder that our God will protect his people, even when we don’t see him directly involved. We remind ourselves that we are to be brave and take risks for the gospel, because we are here “for such a time as this.” The celebration is commemorated with storytelling, costumes, giving to those in need, and an atmosphere of joy and gladness.
What Do We Do on Purim?
Today, Christians can celebrate the Purim story as well. The story reminds us that when God doesn’t seem to be present, His Holy Spirit is still at work. He will not abandon his people, even when things seem beyond hope. We remember this when we see the way the Jews and Christians have been persecuted through the centuries. The season of Purim is an important time to remember those whose lives were lost to Hitler in the Holocaust, to Joseph Stalin in Russia, and massacred in the Middle East and all over the world today. We know that God’s greater plan will defeat all those who come against God’s people.
Tell the Story of Esther
Give Gifts
Have A Party
Pray for Christians
Purim for the Whole Family
Today, the story of Purim is celebrated on the 14th of Adar, which usually falls sometime in February or March. Purim is a joyous time of celebration, storytelling and fun! There are several thing that mark Purim. Learn more about the holiday down below, and learn why we celebrate Purim.