The deliverance of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire where a plot had been formed to destroy them.
Purim is celebrated among Jews by:
- Exchanging reciprocal gifts of food and drink known as mishloach manot.
- Donating charity to the poor known as mattanot la-evyonim.
- Eating a celebratory meal known as a se'udat Purim.
- Public recitation ("reading of the megillah") of the Scroll of Esther, known as kriat ha-megillah, usually in synagogue.
- Reciting additions, known as Al HaNissim, to the daily prayers and the grace after meals.
- Other customs include drinking wine or any other alcoholic beverage, wearing of masks and costumes, and public celebration.