Happy Purim in Chinese World Culture for Kids

Happy Purim in Chinese | misspandachinese.com

 

Purim is a Jewish holiday.  It is on the 14th day of the month of Adar on the Hebrew Calendar.  It begins at sunset on the first day and ends at sunset the next day.  Purim honors the Jewish heroine Esther who saved her people.

The word „purim” is derived from Akkadian word „pur” – lots, as in lottery, a winning lot.

-Jewish Historical Institute

 

Story – Queen Esther

People read Megillat Esther, the Book of Esther during Purim.  How did Queen Esther let king Ajasierus know about the hurtful plan malicious Haman had to harm her people in Persia?   You and your child can read the story here.  And you can listen to the reading in this video.

 

Purim Graggers

Gragger is a noisemaker.  The tradition is that children and adults will use gragger to make noise each time when the villain, Haman’s name is mention during the reading of Megillat Esther.

 

Symbolic Food

People eat a triangular cookie, hamantaschen during Purim.  The name hamantaschen refers to the villain, Haman.  And, the cookie is representing Haman’s ears.  What is filling in the cookie?  They are usually filled with jam.  I’ve also heard many kids enjoy the chocolate filled ones.  

 

Friendship and Food Gifts

Another Purim tradition is Mishloach Manot which means “sending portions to one another.”  The practice is to give food gifts to family, friends, and others on the day of Purim.  It is common to see two ready-to-eat food items in a gift package.

 

Giving to the People in need 

Matanot L’evyonim is “gifts to the poor” in Hebrew.  This can be done by donating food or clothing to a shelter or food bank.  Another way is to simply give coins to tzedakah.  Giving gifts to the poor is to honor Esther.

 

Chinese Expressions You Can Use for Purium

 

Do you know any cultural celebration that has some similarities to Purim?  What is it?  What is the story behind the festivity?

 

Image by sheri silver

Happy Purim in Chinese | misspandachinese.com

Happy Purim in Chinese World Culture for Kids