Purim

Jewish holiday · ancient history · courage

Queen Esther's bravery. In ancient Persia, a powerful official named Haman planned to harm all the Jewish people. Queen Esther, who was Jewish but kept it secret from the king, risked her own life by revealing Haman's evil plan to save her people.

The Book of Esther. The whole story is told in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Jewish Bible. It's one of the only books that doesn't mention God's name, but shows how people can be brave and do the right thing.

Costumes and masks. During Purim, Jewish people wear colorful costumes and masks, kind of like a carnival celebration. This tradition reminds people of the hidden identities in the story, since Esther had to hide who she really was.

A happy celebration. Purim is one of the most fun and festive Jewish holidays, filled with parties, special foods, and gifts of food to friends. People even read the Esther story out loud and cheer when good things happen.

Gifts and treats. Families exchange gifts of food called mishloach manot, and there's a special three-cornered cookie called a hamantaschen that's shaped to remember Haman. People also give money to people in need to help the whole community celebrate together.