THE FOUR COMMANDMENTS OF PURIM
The celebration of Purim allows children to associate Judaism with joy and celebration. They feel bonded to a people and community who know how to laugh and love their tradition enough to play with it and enjoy it.
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1. The Reading
On Purim it is a mitzvah to hear the Megillah, the Book of Esther, read aloud. Purim’s festivities center on this reading. The actual story of the Megillah is one of straightforward idealism. Its message for us and for our children is that every Jew can be a hero and that individuals can make a difference. Attending a Megillah reading and discussing the story of Esther with children can help to foster a sense of self-worth and provide a role model for every would-be hero.
2. Giving Shalach Manot, Gifts of Food
Giving Shalach Manot reminds us that being a Jew means being part of the community and sharing celebrations with friends. Giving Shalach Manot is a simple mitzvah. It is just a matter of giving a gift of two or more kinds of food to the people important in your family’s life. Shalach Manot may typically include hamantashen , three-cornered cookies named after Haman, fruit, and candy.
3. Giving Matanot la-Evyonim, Gifts to the Poor
In the Jewish tradition, every act of celebration, every moment of significance, and every formal gathering includes an opportunity for giving tzedakah. Tzedakah, comes from the Hebrew word meaning justice, and is the obligation to help those who are in need by sharing part of the wealth we are fortunate enough to have.
4. Celebrate and Be Happy
On Purim, it is a mitzvah to celebrate and be happy. Parties, special meals, hamantashen, costumes, carnivals, plays and sounding graggers are all part of the Purim festival. It is even a mitzvah to get drunk with gladness.
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