B"H
Tuesday, Adar 11, 5781 / February 23, 2021
Thursday night begins the holiday of Purim. The Megilah is read Thursday night and again Friday morning.
There are five mitzvot associated with Purim. These are not part of the 613 mitzvot, as the miracle of Purim occurred about a thousand years after the Giving of the Torah. They are Rabbinical mitzvot.
Thursday, Erev Purim, is a fast day called, Taanit Esther (Fast of Esther). Thursday at the Mincha service we give three half shekels (or the currency of one’s country) for charity. This is called “Machtzit Hashekel.” Charity plates are put out in synagogue so that everyone can perform this mitzvah.
There are five mitzvot associated with Purim, which begins Thursday night through Friday.
1) Reading of the Megilat Esther. Purim night and again during the day we read the Megilat Esther - Scroll of Esther - which tells the complete story of Purim. We must hear every word of the Megilah.
2) Reciting the Al HaNisim. Al HaNisim is a prayer in which we thank G-d for the great miracle of Purim. We recite it Purim during the Amidah prayers and in the Grace-after-meal (Birkat Hamazon).
3) Mishloach Manot - sending gifts. On Purim day (Friday), we send gifts of two ready-to-eat foods to at least one person.
Reason: According to the Talmud, G-d allowed Haman's decree to take place because Jews participated and ate non-kosher food at King Achashverosh's party. By exchanging gifts of kosher food items, we rectify this fault.
Another reason: Sending Mishloach Manot-gifts on Purim is an expression of friendship and unity. We thank G-d for the great miracle of Purim in which our lives were saved, through showing that we are united and care for each other. For there is no greater way of thanking G-d, our Father-in-Heaven, than by giving Him the pleasure of seeing His children united.
4) Matanot LaEvyonim - gifts to the needy. On the day of Purim (Friday), we must give charity to at least two poor people. Although one fulfills the minimum requirement of this mitzvah when giving to two poor people, our sages say, that on Purim it is preferable to give to, "whoever stretches out their hand." Thus, it is customary that on Purim we distribute more charity than usual.
Reason: Same as above, to show that we are united and care for each other. It also helps the poor purchase their Purim meal and enjoy the holiday too.
5) Seudat Purim - Purim meal. During the day of Purim (Friday) we eat a sumptuous and festive meal as befitting the celebration of this great miracle.
HAVE A VERY GOOD, HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SUCCESSFUL DAY