Topical Bible: Month: Adar (March): Feast of Purim In

◄ Month: Adar (March): Feast of Purim In ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Adar is the twelfth month of the Hebrew calendar, typically corresponding to February-March in the Gregorian calendar. It is a month of significance in the Jewish tradition, primarily due to the celebration of the Feast of Purim. This feast is a time of joy and remembrance, commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.

Biblical Background:
The story of Purim is found in the Book of Esther, a narrative set during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. The Jewish people, living in exile, faced a grave threat from Haman, an advisor to the king. Haman harbored a deep animosity towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devised a plan to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom, casting lots (purim) to determine the date of their destruction (Esther 3:7).

Queen Esther, a Jewess and cousin of Mordecai, played a pivotal role in the deliverance of her people. Risking her life, she approached the king without being summoned, which could have resulted in her death. Esther revealed her Jewish identity and Haman's plot to the king, leading to Haman's downfall and the salvation of the Jews (Esther 7:3-6).

The king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. On the 13th and 14th days of Adar, the Jews triumphed over those who sought their harm, turning a day of potential destruction into a time of victory and celebration (Esther 9:1-2).

Observance of Purim:
The Feast of Purim is observed annually on the 14th and 15th days of Adar. It is a time of feasting, gladness, and giving gifts to one another and to the poor, as instructed in Esther 9:22: "as the days on which the Jews gained relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. They were to observe them as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor."

The reading of the Megillah, or the Book of Esther, is central to the celebration. It is customary to read the entire book aloud in the synagogue, with the congregation participating by making noise to drown out Haman's name whenever it is mentioned, symbolizing the obliteration of his evil intentions.

Significance:
Purim is a reminder of God's providence and faithfulness in preserving His people. Though God's name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is evident in the deliverance of the Jews. The story underscores themes of courage, faith, and divine intervention, encouraging believers to trust in God's sovereignty even in dire circumstances.

In the broader biblical narrative, Purim serves as a testament to the enduring covenant between God and His people, highlighting His protection and care throughout history. It is a celebration of survival and a call to remember the past while looking forward with hope and gratitude.

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Esther 9:1-26
Now in the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king's commandment and his decree drew near to be put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them, (though it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had rule over them that hated them;)
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