How to Celebrate Purim
Understanding the story, embracing the celebration, and discovering Jesus in Purim makes knowing how to celebrate Purim all the more meaningful.
What is Purim?
Purim is a joyous biblical holiday that commemorates God’s deliverance of the Jewish people as recorded in the Book of Esther. It is a time of thanksgiving, celebration, and generosity—filled with feasting, giving gifts, and remembering God’s faithfulness.
For Christians, Purim is not just a Jewish holiday—it is a powerful reminder of God’s hand in history, His protection over His people, and the way He uses the seemingly ordinary to accomplish His divine purposes. As we look at the story of Esther, we can also see reflections of Jesus (Yeshua), our ultimate deliverer, and the call to stand with Israel today.
The Story of Esther: God’s Hidden Hand
The Book of Esther recounts how a young Jewish woman named Hadassah (Esther) was chosen to be queen of Persia at a time when her people faced destruction. Haman, a high-ranking official, plotted to annihilate the Jewish people. But through divine providence, Esther—guided by her cousin Mordecai—courageously intervened. She risked her life by approaching King Xerxes uninvited, exposing Haman’s wicked plan, and securing the salvation of her people.
Though God’s name is never mentioned in the book, His presence is evident throughout. Esther’s story reminds us that even when God seems hidden, He is always at work.
How to Celebrate Purim with Yeshua in the Picture
Can we see Yeshua within the Purim story? Any Jewish believer in Jesus will say yes. Here are some ways we see his story at work:
- A Mediator for the People – Esther interceded on behalf of her people, just as Jesus intercedes for us before the Father (1 Timothy 2:5).
- Salvation Through Sacrifice – Esther was willing to lay down her life for her people, foreshadowing Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for our salvation (John 15:13).
- Reversal of Fate – The Jewish people went from impending destruction to great victory, just as Jesus turns death into life for those who trust in Him (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
Purim is a story of redemption—one that reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His people, both in ancient times and today.
How to Celebrate Purim as a Christian
Can you, as a Christian, also celebrate Purim? We don’t see why not! Here is a step-by-step guide on bringing the joy of Purim into your home and community.
Purim is a holiday of joy, thanksgiving, and remembrance—a time to celebrate God’s faithfulness in the past and His ongoing work today. Whether you’re celebrating alone, with family, or with a small group, here’s a simple guide to incorporating the traditions of Purim into your life.
Step 1: Read the Book of Esther (Megillat Esther)
The heart of Purim is remembering God’s deliverance through Esther.
How to Do It:
- Read Esther 1-10 aloud or listen to an audio version.
- If reading in a group, take turns reading different parts.
- Make it fun! Yell “boo” and shake a noisemaker whenever Haman’s name is mentioned, and cheer when you hear “Mordecai.”
As you read, think about how Esther foreshadows Jesus as our mediator and savior. Even when God’s name isn’t mentioned, His presence is everywhere—just as He is at work in our lives today!
Step 2: Pray for Israel and the Jewish People
Purim is a reminder of God’s covenant with Israel and His promise to protect His people.
How to Do It:
- Pray for Israel—for peace, protection, and salvation.
- Pray for the Jewish people worldwide, that they would come to know Yeshua (Jesus) as their Messiah.
- Pray for persecuted believers—just as Esther stood in the gap for her people, we can intercede for those facing hardship.
“For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet…” (Isaiah 62:1)
Step 3: Give to Those in Need (Matanot L’Evyonim)
Esther 9:22 commands giving to the poor as part of the celebration.
How to Do It:
- Donate money to a ministry that supports Israel, Jewish believers, or the poor.
- Prepare a meal or a care package for someone in need in your community.
- Give generously as a reflection of God’s love.
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17)
Step 4: Send Gifts of Food (Mishloach Manot)
Purim is about sharing joy and generosity.
How to Do It:
- Prepare small gift bags with at least two different food items (e.g., hamantaschen cookies, fruit, chocolates).
- Deliver them to friends, family, neighbors, or someone who could use encouragement.
- Consider attaching a note with a Bible verse about God’s faithfulness.
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25)
Step 5: Prepare a Purim Feast (Se’udat Purim)
Purim is a day of joy, celebrating how God turned mourning into gladness.
How to Do It:
- Plan a festive meal with family or friends. Include foods associated with Purim, such as:
- Hamantaschen* (triangle-shaped cookies traditionally filled with poppy seeds, jam, or chocolate, representing Haman’s defeat)
- Traditional Jewish dishes like apricot chicken or Israeli chopped salad
- Wine or grape juice, symbolizing joy
- Talk about God’s faithfulness over the past year and share testimonies.
- Sing worship songs that celebrate victory and deliverance (Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”)
Esther 9:22 reminds us that Purim is a time of “feasting and joy.”
*Scroll to bottom for a PDF with recipe
Step 6: Dress Up in Costumes or Wear Something Festive
Costumes reflect the theme of hidden identity in the Purim story—Esther concealed her Jewish heritage, and God worked behind the scenes.
How to Do It:
- Dress up as biblical characters (Esther, Mordecai, King Xerxes, etc.).
- Keep it simple with colorful scarves or masks to add fun to the celebration.
- If celebrating with kids, encourage them to dress up and act out the story of Esther.
Even when we don’t see Him, God is always working behind the scenes (Romans 8:28).
Step 7: Worship and Rejoice!
Purim is about rejoicing in God’s salvation!
How to Do It:
- Sing songs about God’s victory (“Our God Reigns,” “The Battle Belongs,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” etc.).
- Reflect on how God has delivered you personally in different situations.
- Take time to thank God for Jesus, our ultimate deliverer, who brings us from death to life!
“You turned my mourning into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” (Psalm 30:11)
How to Celebrate Purim: Meaningful Traditions for Christians
Each of these customs points back to God’s faithfulness and deliverance—a message that resonates with believers in Jesus:
- Reading Esther → Recognizing God’s providence in history.
- Giving to the poor → Reflecting Jesus’ heart for the needy.
- Feasting and rejoicing → Celebrating God’s victory over sin and death.
- Costumes and hidden identity → Remembering that God often works behind the scenes, just as Jesus was not always recognized as the Messiah.
Why Purim Matters for Christians Today
Just as Esther stood for her people in the face of danger, we are called to stand with Israel and the Jewish people today. Antisemitism is on the rise around the world, and Israel faces constant threats. But God is faithful, and He calls His followers to be a light and a voice of support.
By celebrating Purim, you are:
- Recognizing God’s hand in history and today.
- Standing in solidarity with Israel.
- Honoring the biblical heritage of your faith.
- Rejoicing in God’s victory in Jesus.
Bonus: 3 More Ways Jewish Communities Celebrate Purim
In addition to many of the ways outlined above, Jewish communities around the world celebrate Purim with vibrant traditions rooted in the biblical command found in Esther 9:20-32. Here are the key steps and customs observed today:
1. Acting Out Purim Plays (Purimshpiels)
A purimshpeil is a comedic play retelling the Esther story, often with humor and modern references. The word purimshpeil comes from Yiddish, and is a tradition primary within Ashekenazi Jewish circles (those hailing from Eastern Europe in the diaspora).
The plays are performed in synagogues, schools, or community centers, and they add a fun and interactive element to the celebration. They reinforce the Purim story in an engaging way and reflect the joy of the holiday.
2. Purim Parades & Street Celebrations
Some cities or communities hold public celebrations, including parades, music, and dancing. Most of them feature many marchers and families in costumes that range from biblical to whimsical. This reflects the public rejoicing described in Esther 8:15-17.
3. “Ad Lo Yada” (Until One Cannot Distinguish)
What is “ad lo yada?” It’s a rabbinic tradition that encourages people to drink wine “until they cannot tell the difference” between “Blessed is Mordecai” and “Cursed is Haman.” While some take this literally, many simply see it as a call to rejoice with unrestrained joy in God’s salvation. This highlights Purim’s theme of reversals—mourning turned to joy (Esther 9:22).
Step into the Story
Like Esther, you were born “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Purim is an invitation to trust God’s unseen hand, boldly live out your faith, and stand with His people. Whether you celebrate with a Messianic congregation or in your own home, let this be a time of joy, prayer, and gratitude for the ultimate deliverance found in Jesus!
Chag Purim Sameach! (Happy Purim!)
A Simple Guide Through the Biblical Holidays: Free PDF Download
You may know them as the “Jewish holidays,” but did you know the Bible calls them “Feasts of the LORD”?
We’ve put this guide together for you so that you have all you need to know about these holidays that God calls His own.
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