Purim 2023

Halachic Framework

Purim is a rabbinic holiday instituted by the Sages. Unlike biblical festivals, ordinary work (melachah) is permitted, though it is customary not to engage in mundane labor:

• Prayer additions: Al HaNissim ("For the Miracles") is added to the Amidah and Grace After Meals; Hallel is recited during the morning service.
• No fasting or eulogies: Fasting and eulogies are prohibited, underlining the holiday's joyful character.
• Tachanun: The penitential prayer is omitted throughout the holiday.

Customs & Observances

• Reading the Megillah (Book of Esther) — twice, evening and morning
• Mishloach Manot — sending food gifts to friends
• Matanot L'Evyonim — giving charity to the poor
• Festive Purim meal (Seudah)
• The four mitzvot: Megillah, Mishloach Manot, Matanot L'Evyonim, Seudah

Greetings & Blessings for Purim

Traditional greetings used before, during, and after Purim:

• Happy Purim — the standard greeting
• Chag Purim Sameach — "A joyous Purim holiday"
• Purim Sameach — "A joyous Purim"

בעברית:

• פורים שמח
• חג פורים שמח
• פורים שמח ושמח

About Purim

Purim is celebrated on the 14th of Adar (and the 15th in walled cities like Jerusalem). It commemorates the salvation of the Jews of Persia through Mordecai and Esther, as told in the Book of Esther.

Also known as: Feast of Lots

Jewish holidays begin at sunset on the evening before the date shown and conclude at nightfall (when three medium stars are visible) on the final day. In the Diaspora, major Torah festivals are observed for two days (Yom Tov Sheni shel Galuyot), while in Israel they are observed for one day.