Purim is named for the “pur” or lots that evil Hamman (boo, hiss) cast to determine the date of the destruction of the Jews of Persia.
We read the Book of Esther (Megillah) which recounts Hamman’s plan and how the secretly Jewish Queen Esther saved the day. (With the help of her uncle Moredichai of course.)
It is a day to celebrate that which is ‘hidden’. Just as Esther hid her Jewish identity from the king until it was necessary to reveal herself, we too “hide” our true identities by the wearing of costumes on this day. It is a day filled with silliness. However, as evil as Hamman’s plot was, we do not rejoice in the death of Hamman and his sons. And for this reason we are told to rush through the reading of their names as they are sent to the gallows.
We at TBI celebrate Esther’s courage and the victory of the Jews with a shpeil or two and many Hammantashen! Please join us in the fun of celebration!
If you’d like to know more about the origins of Purim shpeils please check out Tanta Golda’s article. A History of Purim Shpeils