Objects

Three young women from the Kreuss family in Jerusalem during preparations for the Purim festival. Purim, also known as the Feast of Fates (from the Akkadian word 'pur' meaning 'fate'), is celebrated in the month of adar (it falls on the 14th day of the month, which is the end of February/beginning of March). It commemorates the events recorded in the Book of Esther, concerning the rescue of the Jewish community in Persia from the annihilation that was started by the actions of Haman (advisor to King Ahasuerus). Purim is one of the joyous, happy Jewish holidays. During the ongoing festivities, one should no longer fast. An integral part of the Purim holiday is the custom of creating costumes, organising processions or preparing masks, as well as small gifts that families give each other during the festivities. The giving of gifts is closely linked to the Purim commandment of charity, or the giving of donations and alms (Hebrew: matanot le-evionim). Tradition dictates that gifts should include two food items suitable for immediate consumption. These usually include sweets, fruit and wine, the consumption of which is allowed in greater quantities than on non-holiday days.

MBK, AW