Halloween in February, Valentine's in August.... (part 1 of 2)

Halloween in February, Valentine's in August... sort of... let me explain...

Part of the beauty of relocating to a foreign country is being able to celebrate its holidays and customs (double the fun). This includes Purim which is the happiest of the Israeli holidays. Celebrations for this are underway. People dressed up in festive, non scary costumes adorn the streets including a full monkey suited man riding a scooter (I was not quick enough to take a photo). But I was able to take the photo below.

peacocks...

Purim is the celebration of the story in the Book of Esther (Megila). In the story, Mordecai is a member of the King's court in Persia and a relative of Queen Esther. Haman is the grand vizier  of Persia and an anti-semite. He was plotting to get all Jews killed with in the kingdom but his plans were foiled by Mordecai and Queen Esther. At the end, the Jews were saved from the evil plans of Haman and he was executed in the gallows that he created himself for Mordecai. 

Goodness prevailed!

With Purim also comes hamantaschen and mishloach manot. 

Hamantaschen

Hamantaschen are triangular filled pastries. Traditionally with poppy seed filling, now these yummy goodness are available with a variety of fillings including dates and chocolate. Haman as you now know is the villain in the story and wore a three cornered hat. Mantaschen is a popular type of pastry. Mashed together  you get Haman Taschen. It's also known in Hebrew as Oznay haman, which means Haman's ears. This might have come from the old tradition of cutting criminal's ears before execution. Some also say that the triangle shape symbolizes the strength of Queen Esther and the founders of Judaism; Jacob, Isaac and Abraham. 

Mishloach Manot

There are certain guidelines to follow in the giving of Mishloach Manots ("sending of portions") or purim baskets. This gift giving ensures there is enough food for the Purim feast and it also improves love and friendship among the Jews. 

According to the Halakha (religious laws for the Jews) these gifts must consists of two different types of ready to eat foods. And should be given to at least one person. The gifts must be sent during the daylight hours of Purim (February 24). Giving to more than one person is praiseworthy but it's best to give more to charity instead. 

So... 

Wear fun, happy costumes.

Read the Megila.

Eat some hamantaschen.

Give a mishloach manot to at least one person.

Donate to Charity.

Be Happy Be Merry. Happy Purim!