A day bursting with joy, excitement, and celebration.

It commemorates our nation’s miraculous salvation more than two millennia ago.

What makes the story of Purim unique is expressed in the words of the Megillah ונהפך הוא  – “it turned upside down.”

What was first a time of tragedy turned into great success and happiness.

When we celebrate Purim this year we can think about this message.

Everything seemed lost, hopeless, and dark, with no solution in sight.

It is at these moments that we can ask ourselves, “How can we get out of this current situation? It seems impossible.”

Purim teaches us that all these challenges can turn over in an instant.

We pray that the Jewish people experience a Purim miracle where all the negative challenges be turned upside down, becoming miracles of victory and salvation, G-d willing.

Here are some of the observances for Purim-

First is the Fast of Esther, on the day before Purim. The fast starts Thursday morning 13 March at 5:33 am. The fast begins approximately an hour before sunrise, and lasts until nightfall.

This is to commemorate the prayer and fasting that the Jewish people held during the Purim story.

On Purim we have the 4 special Mitzvot:

1. Reading of the Megillah (book of Esther), which recounts the story of the Purim miracle. This is done once on the eve of Purim and then again on the following day.

2. Giving money gifts to at least two poor people- on the day of Purim.

3. Sending gifts of two kinds of food to at least one person- on the day of Purim.

4. A festive Purim feast, which often includes wine or other festive beverages. This is done the day of Purim.

Wishing everyone a Chag Purim Sameach!
Shabbat Shalom!