Friends!

Today, Jews around the world celebrate Purim - a holiday in memory of the miraculous escape of Jews at the time of the Persian king Ahasuerus (5 century BC) The name of the holiday comes from the word "Pur", which means "lots".

In the Book of Esther narrated the history of this holiday. Once the king Ahasuerus held a great feast, he wanted to boast of the beauty of his wife Vashti. But she refused to go to the guests, who incredibly offended ruler.

Then to his palace was brought a lot of beautiful girls, so he chose another wife. He liked Esther, the Jewish girl, an orphan. She grew up with a cousin - Mordecai. Esther became queen, but didn’t tell Ahasuerus about her origins.

Instead, Ahasuerus appointed as his adviser person, that hated Jews - Haman. Everyone was feared of him, except Mordecai. He never bowed before him for that Haman decided to punish not only the rebellious man, but all Jews. He casted lots to determine when to physically exterminate Jews. It was the 13th day of the month Adar. And Mordecai learned of his plan and told Esther.

It is, despite the ban to come to the king without an invitation that threatened her with death, she wentto talk. Invited ruler with Haman to the feast. She told Ahasuerus about her origins and the threat under which the whole Jewish people came and asked him not to kill anyone. King fulfilled her wish and ordered the execute Haman. Ironically, on the very gallows that Haman has prepared for the brother of the queen.

The king issued a special decree by which all the Jews of Persia had to defend his life. Adar 13, the day that Haman choosed the day of the death of Jews, they killed thousands of haters. The next day - celebrated their salvation.

And now Purim is one of the most important holidays of the year. For two days, made merry feasts, carnivals and masquerades. Traditionally, people prepare a special dish - "ears of Haman" - triangular cakes with jam. All lots of wine, so they cannot distinguish the names of Haman and Mordecai.

Friends! This once again proves that it is not necessary to give up ever, salvation will come and we should believe in that and fight for it. I wish you all joy and happiness in this festive day!