Jewish Halloween? 5 Reasons Purim Is So Much More

 

There are some simple answers when someone asks about Purim: “It’s like Jewish Halloween!” or “It’s like Carnival, but Jewish.” And sure, Purim – one of the most joyous holidays in the Jewish calendar – features an awesome party and costumes. But the truth is that Purim is so much more than Jewish Halloween or Carnival. Purim is a chance to help others, remember not to always judge someone by looks, celebrate heroes, practice being brave, and remember to always be proudly Jewish.

Related: How to Plan an Inclusive Purim Event

Here are five more reasons that Purim is more than “Jewish Halloween:”

The Purim Play

Like other Jewish holidays, Purim is steeped in history and tradition. Celebrations center around reading the Megillah (the scroll containing the Book of Esther), and we are obligated to hear it in its entirety. The 12th century rabbi and sage Maimonides even taught that "The reading of the Megillah certainly supersedes all other mitzvot."

The story of the good guys (Esther and Mordechai) versus the bad guy (Haman) is one that’s easy for kids to understand, especially since synagogues and other Jewish groups tell the story of Purim as a play (“spiel”). But you can also have fun acting out parts of the story at home or as a get together activity. Try a Purim-themed storytelling game.

Silly at Synagogue

Halloween high jinks are frowned upon for grownups, but the silliness is part of the Purim experience for all ages. We’re supposed to hear the Megillah read, but we also make loud noises to drown out the sound of Haman’s name. The craziness can include using funny and strange melodies for parts for the service, and the fun will often extend into other events, like a carnival.

A make-your-own grogger (noisemaker) party is a great group activity, and can be done by recycling materials you already have around the house.

Costumes

Another part of Purim meant for all ages, adults and children, is dressing up. The custom of wearing costumes on Purim alludes to the miracle of Purim, when Queen Esther saved the Jewish people. Parents can get into the fun too, and family costumes can be based on the Megillah (there’s nothing cuter than a two-year-old evil Haman) or anything you like. You could even dress up like your favorite PJ Library character.

Exchanging Goodie Bags

One of the things that really makes Purim stand out from Halloween is the food. Instead of a one-sided equation where you either go collect candy or you have to hand it out, on Purim the sweets are exchanged as gifts, called mishloach manot. It’s customary to give gifts of fruit, desserts, and candy to friends and family members. And there’s no risk of having your house toilet papered if you don’t give them out.

Have children help bake hamentaschen, the traditional triangle-shaped Purim cookie.

Giving to Those in Need

Just as we make time to exchange gifts of food with friends, we should also consider giving to those who don’t have the resources to buy items for themselves. This Purim tradition is called matanot l’evyonim, and it’s a beautiful way to give back and share some of the joy the holiday brings.

Kids can help both in the planning, by suggesting places that should receive tzedakah funds, or in the giving, by helping to put together care packages or meals for homeless families.

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March 18, 2019