Purim Purpose. Purim celebrates the events narrated in the Book of Esther, which took place in the middle of the 5th century BCE. Purim specifically commemorates the deliverance of the Jews in Persia from the hands of Haman, the king's officer, who plotted their death. Date. 14th Adar. Shushan Purim. The 15th Adar is known as Shushan Purim since in the Persian capital of Shushan, the Jews were required to continue defending themselves against their enemies for one more day. Name. The name Purim is derived from the word pur meaning "lot." It refers to the evil machinations of Haman who cast lots to determine on which day he should arrange for the slaughter of the Jews of Persia. Observance In the Synagogue. On the eve of Purim and on Purim morning, Megillat Esther - the Book of Esther - is chanted to a special melody. At the mention of Haman the children stamp their feet or turn their "greggers" (sort of rattles) in derision of the name of the arch enemy. In the Home. Purim is the occasion for parties and celebrations and a festive meal or seu'dah which is held with family and friends. People give charity and exchange gifts of food, as required by the Book of Esther. Because of the turnabout of the fate of the Jews, there is also a custom of masquerading on Purim, including masked parades and carnivals in Israel.