Purim Main Page

Pre-Purim

Shabbat Parashat Shekalim - The Sabbath of the Shekels

Shabbat Parashat Zachor - The Sabbath of Remembering

Ta'anit Esther - The Fast of Esther

General Information

Purim What and When

Why Purim is Called Purim

A Bit of World History

A Brief Synopsis of the Book of Esther

Purim Night

Megillah Reading

Breaking the Fast

Purim Day

Megillah Reading

Mishloach Manot (also called Shaloch Manos) - Sending Gifts

Matanot L'evyonim - Gifts to the Poor

Festive Meal

Drinking on Purim

Major Themes

The Mystery of Hester Panim

Hanging Haman: The Commandment to Wipe-Out Amalek

Fun

Send a Virtual Purim Postcard!

About Us

Get Involved

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Purim Day
Megillah Reading

The Megillah tells us that all Jews agreed "to observe them as days of feasting and joy, with the sending of food gifts, each to his/her friend, and donations to the needy" (Esther 9:22). This is the source for the various mitzvot that are part of Purim day:

Changes in the synagogue service on Purim

Torah Reading

  • The Purim Torah reading is Exodus 17:8-16, which tells of the initial encounter between Israel and Amalek in the wilderness.

  • Megillah Reading

As mentioned earlier, the Megillah must be heard once our Purim night and once on Purim day.

The Megillah reading will often follow the morning service. Those who are unable to attend, however, should check with their local synagogue(s) for later additional readings.

For further details on the Megillah and Megillah Reading, please read Purim Night Megillah Reading.