What Is Purim?

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The festival of Purim is celebrated every year on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar (late winter/early spring). It commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia from Haman’s plot “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day.”

The story in a nutshell:

The Persian empire of the 4th century BCE extended over 127 lands, and all the Jews were its subjects. When King Ahasuerus had his wife, Queen Vashti, executed for failing to follow his orders, he orchestrated a beauty pageant to find a new queen. A Jewish girl, Esther, found favor in his eyes and became the new queen—though she refused to divulge the identity of her nationality.

Meanwhile, the anti-Semitic Haman was appointed prime minister of the empire. Mordechai, the leader of the Jews (and Esther’s cousin), defied the king’s orders and refused to bow to Haman. Haman was incensed, and convinced the king to issue a decree ordering the extermination of all the Jews on the 13th of Adar—a date chosen by a lottery Haman made.

Mordechai galvanized all the Jews, convincing them to repent, fast and pray to G‑d. Meanwhile, Esther asked the king and Haman to join her for a feast. At the feast, Esther revealed to the king her Jewish identity. Haman was hanged, Mordechai was appointed prime minister in his stead, and a new decree was issued—granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies.

On the 13th of Adar, the Jews mobilized and killed many of their enemies. On the 14th of Adar, they rested and celebrated.

Purim observances:

a) Reading of the megillah (book of Esther), which recounts the story of the Purim miracle.
b) Giving money gifts to the poor.
c) Sending gifts of food to friends.
d) A festive Purim feast.

It is also customary for children to dress up in disguising costumes.

Purim in Tel Aviv 2014

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Purim in Tel Aviv is a major time for celebration. This article is dedicated to events for Purim in Tel Aviv, see the general article for information on Purim in Israel. In 2014, as always there are an amazing array of events taking place in Tel Aviv to mark the festival, in this article we will provide you with basic information about what is going on when, from the famous Florentin Tel Aviv Street Party, to street carnivals, to parties and alternative events. If you missed Purim, you didnt miss the party – check out upcoming Tel Aviv parties. Also check out Purim in Jerusalem.

Tel Aviv Purim Street Party

PurimTelAvivThe Tel Aviv Purim Street Party will be in King Saul Boulevard and Museum Square (outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art). The event will feature, as it has done in previous years, performances from some top musicians, and a great party atmosphere. Event will not take place in rain.

Friday March 14, 12:00-evening.

See a video from the 2011 Purim Street Party (http://youtu.be/XBsX8dm0cnQ)

Tel Aviv Purim Zombie Walk

Another annual event, the Tel Aviv Purim Zombie walk features, well, zombies, walking through the streets of Tel Aviv. In 2014, for the first time, the event will take place during day time, on March 14, gathering at 12:00 at the corner of Ben-Zion Boulevard and King George (Near the Dizengoff Center).

Friday March 14, from 12:00.

Yaron Festival, Suzanne Dellal Center

Great for kids, and puppet-lovers, 15 amazing puppet shows will be performed on the plaza of Tel Aviv’s Suzanne Dellal Center, as well as other fun activities for families.

Friday March 14-Sunday March 16, from 10:00. Shows 40-90 NIS

Afrojack and Nervo in Tel Aviv

Leading DJ Afrojack, and Australian duo, Nervo, are heading to Tel Aviv for two super Purim parties, on Thursday March 13, and Friday March 14.

More details and tickets here.

Fortis Purim Party

Israeli rock legend, Rami Fortis is hosting two parties for Purim at Tel Aviv’s Barbi Club. Thursday 13 will be themed superheroes, and on Friday 14, the theme is villains.

More details and tickets here.

 

 

 

(By Tourist Israel)