Purim Glossary

Key words and phrases for Purim.

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Gragger—literally, “noisemaker.” Graggers are used during the reading of the megillah. When the reader speaks the name of Haman the congregation tries to drown out the evil name using noisemakers and booing.

Hamantaschen--Yiddish for "Haman's pockets," also known as “oznay Haman” meaning "Haman's ears." A triangular cookie with a filling (typically jam or poppyseed) inside, traditionally eaten on Purim.

Matanot l’evyonim—literally, “gifts to the poor.” It is a commandment to give to the poor on Purim.

Megillah—the Scroll of Esther, a book of the bible read during the holiday of Purim. Megillah scrolls are often illuminated.

mishloah manot, shlah manot—literally, “sending portions to one another.” A phrase taken from the Megillah that commands the Jewish community to give small packages of food or gifts to friends on the day of Purim.