Did you know? Facts and thoughts about Purim tradition
Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people of the ancient Persian Empire from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Biblical Book of Esther (Megillat Esther). According to the story, Haman cast lots to determine the day upon which to exterminate the Jews.

The holiday of Purim has been held in high esteem by Judaism at all times; some have held that when all the prophetical and hagiographical works are forgotten, the Book of Esther will still be remembered, and, accordingly, the Feast of Purim will continue to be observed (Jerusalem Talmud, Megillah 1/5a; Maimonides, Mishneh Torah, Megilla). Like Hanukkah, Purim has more of a national than a religious character, and its status as a holiday is on a lesser level than those days ordained holy by the Torah. Accordingly, business transactions and even manual labor are allowed on Purim, though in certain places restrictions have been imposed on work.

The four main mitzvot of the day are:

1. Listening to the public reading, usually in synagogue, of the Book of Esther in the evening and again in the following morning (k'riat megilla)
2. Sending food gifts to friends (mishloach manot)
3. Giving charity to the poor (matanot la'evyonim)
4. Eating a festive meal (se`udah) including hamentashen :)

What you will find at Chocolategelt.com for your Purim celebration:
Different styles of groggers for the megillah reading our - very popular plastic clown groggers and metal ones as well as more fancy wooden groggers. Our selection of mishloach manot supplies responds to every budget and taste. Choose from our very traditional Purim boxes and Purim bags or go with something more fun such as our cute hamentashen Purim boxes and gift cards. Our delicious hamentashen will be a hit during your Purim celebration, hamentashen sold in bulk and in small packages are perfect for mishloach manot and for a festive meal. Purim character masks will be a great match for your Purim spiel or you may choose simple eye Purim masks just to add color to your celebration. Our professional staff will help you with your fundraising shalach manot project. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions/comments. Thank you for shopping with us. We look forward to serving you!