Purim

The book of Esther is not a historical document in the usual sense--but that doesn't undermine its importance as a religious book in the Jewish canon.

Are Jews really obligated to drink to the point of not knowing the difference between Haman and Mordecai?

Local celebrations echoing the Purim theme have been instituted by communities throughout Jewish history.

A hidden God allows for a more active human role in the covenant.

A serious lesson that focuses on fighting evil precedes the Purim fesitivites.

The Purim story is a guideline for living in the Diaspora.

This Purim catchphrase is now used in other contexts as well.

Traditional blessings recited before and after reading the Scroll of Esther.

Not to be confused with regular Purim, this minor holiday brings joy in late winter on Jewish leap years.