Services Events Purim

Fast of Esther - Mar 7, 2012 - Adar 13 5772

A day of fasting in remembrance of the fast of Queen Esther prior to her attempt to save the Jewish people of ancient Persia.

Purim - Mar 8, 2012 - Adar 14 5772

Purim commemorates the annulment of the decree against the Jewish people in ancient Persia (Late 6th century B.C.E.).

Purim begins Sunset, 7 March 2012 - Adar 14th 5772 – nightfall, 8th March and ends sunset 9th March 2012

Purim is a festive Jewish holiday that celebrates the deliverance of the Jews from their enemies in the biblical Book of Esther. Purim is celebrated on the fourteenth day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which usually falls sometime in February or March. Purim is such a popular holiday that the ancient rabbis declared that it alone would continue to be celebrated after the Messiah comes (Midrash Mishlei 9). All other holidays will not be celebrated in the messianic days.

The most important Purim custom is reading the Purim Story from the Scroll of Esther, also called the Megillah. Jews usually attend synagogue for this special reading. Plymouth Synagogue Congregation will read the Megillah after sunset March 8th.

Whenever Haman (the villain's) name is mentioned people will boo, howl, hoot and shake noisemakers (groggers) to express their dislike of him. Hearing the Megillah reading is a commandment that applies to both women and men.

For more information about Purim and a party see under SERVICES