Adolf Shaevich, Chief Rabbi of Russia

Rescue of the Jewish people

The cheerful and wonderful holiday of Purim arose as a result of overcoming dark hostile plans and for centuries has been a symbol of the unity of the Jewish people. During the celebration of Purim, we remember the events that took place in the ancient Persian kingdom, when only mutual help and support saved an entire people from complete extermination.

Jews around the world celebrate the miraculous salvation of their people from the threat of physical extermination during the reign of the Persian king Ahasuerus (Artaxerxes). One of his advisers, the villain Haman, tried to “finally solve the Jewish question,” that is, to exterminate the Jews without exception. Haman cast lots, looking for a good day to carry out his plan. In the Old Persian language, the word "Pur" meant "Lot", hence the name of the holiday Purim.

The king's wife was the beautiful Esther, Mordechai's niece. It was Esther who played an important role in the life of her people. Mordechai, having learned about Haman's plan, turned to Esther and set her the task of saving the Jewish people from extermination.

Esther throws a feast twice and invites her husband Achashverosh and his advisor Haman to it. During the second feast, Esther asks the king to save her from the villain who is planning to destroy her and her people. When Achashverosh asked who the villain was who planned to kill the queen, she pointed to Haman. Ahasuerus was terribly angry, because he loved his wife very much, and ordered Haman to be hanged on the very pole on which Haman intended to hang Mordechai.

As a result, everything ended well. Brave Esther saved the Jews, Mordechai received royal honors, and they remained in the memory of the people forever.

In memory of this miracle, the miracle of Purim, Mordechai and Esther ordered all Jews from year to year, from generation to generation, to organize a joyful holiday, give generous alms ("tzedakah") on this day, send each other treats and make gifts to the poor. This day is declared the holiday of Purim - in memory of the salvation of Jews from destruction.

Since then, Jews have been celebrating this wonderful holiday. Before Purim, it is customary to fast; the Scroll of Esther, which tells about the above events, is read in synagogues. But perhaps the most famous and fun part of the holiday is Purimshpil, which children really like. Costume performances are held in synagogues, and all Jewish families traditionally bake triangular sweet cookies with poppy seed filling - “gomentashi”.

This is a holiday of fun and joy, because it was the ability to have fun and rejoice - despite all troubles and dangers - that helped the Jewish people carry faith and hope through the most difficult trials. May these holidays be bright and joyful for everyone, health, happiness, success and prosperity!!!

To the readers of the Kommersant newspaper