The central activity on Purim is reading the Book of Esther. A Megillah or scroll is taken out and folded like a letter. The entire story of Esther is read from this scroll. This is done in the synagogue. Based on the command to “blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven” An unusual custom developed and has long been practiced. As the Megillah is read, every time the name of Haman is mentioned the listeners boo, hiss, stomp their feet, whistle, pound plastic, air-filled hammers, or spin noisemakers called greggers. The idea is to make so much noise that the memory of Haman, an Amalekite, is blotted out from under heaven.
The underlying theme of every Purim activity is fun. It is the most joyous of all Jewish holidays. Happiness and good cheer are the highlights of this day’s celebration. There is singing, dancing, and an almost carnival-like atmosphere. Children and even some adults dress in costumes. Purim plays are presented. People who are usually held in high esteem, such as rabbis, are good-naturedly parodied and made the brunt of jokes.
