What was Purim?
Quick answer
Purim is the Jewish festival commemorating the events of Esther — God’s rescue of his people from Haman’s plot. It is celebrated joyfully with reading the book of Esther, gifts to the poor, and feasting.
"Pur" means "lot" — referring to the lot Haman cast to set the date of the genocide. God reversed the day.
God’s name never appears in Esther, but his providence is everywhere. Purim celebrates the hidden hand of God in apparently ordinary politics.
For Christians: a yearly object lesson that God works behind history. He does not need to be on stage to be active.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.