To commemorate the miracle, the Men of the Great Assembly (the High Court at the beginning of the Second Temple era) established Purim as a holiday for all time. There are four mitzvot on Purim, all of which we will explain below:
- Reading Megillat Esther
- Having a festive meal and rejoicing
- Sending mishlo’aĥ manot (food packages)
- Giving matanot la-evyonim (charity to the poor)
Three of these mitzvot are mentioned explicitly in Esther 9:22: “Observe them as days of feasting and joy, sending portions (mishlo’aĥ manot) to one another, and gifts to the poor (matanot la-evyonim).”
It is customary to wear holiday clothing on Purim. Taking off from work is preferable, but working is permitted to avoid significant loss, or to buy Purim necessities).
Al Ha-nisim is recited in the Amida and in the Grace After Meals.
