Purim

Purim takes place during the Persian period and is based on the story in the Book of Esther. The Jewish people were living under Persian rule when Haman, an official in the empire, planned to destroy them. Through the courage of Queen Esther and the guidance of Mordechai, the Jews were saved, and Haman’s plan was reversed. From a Jewish perspective, Purim shows God’s hidden protection, even though God’s name is not directly mentioned in the book. It also reflects the reality of Jewish life in exile: the Jews could rise to influence, but they were still vulnerable under foreign rule.