On what date does Purim fall?
14th of Adar
Source: Esther 9:21
In detail
Purim commemorates the deliverance recorded in the Book of Esther. Most communities observe it on the 14th of Adar (Shulchan Aruch, OC 688:3); cities walled from the time of Joshua, including Jerusalem, observe the 15th (OC 688:1). In a Jewish leap year, these observances take place in Adar II (Megillah 6b). The celebration begins on the evening before the relevant date.
Its main observances are distinct:
- Hear the Megillah at night and again by day (OC 687:1).
- Give gifts to at least two poor people (OC 694:1).
- Send two food portions to one person (OC 695:4); the Rema explicitly specifies daytime delivery (Rema, OC 695:4).
- Eat the Purim festive meal during the day; a meal held only at night does not fulfil this obligation (OC 695:1).
There is a blessing difference: Sephardi practice follows Shulchan Aruch in not repeating Shehecheyanu at the daytime Megillah reading; Ashkenazi practice follows the Rema in repeating it (OC 692:1).
A Beit Din may ask which Purim date applies where you live and how gifts to friends differ from gifts to the poor. Travelling between cities can affect the applicable date and needs individual guidance (OC 688:5). A common mistake is attending the evening reading and party but overlooking the daytime reading and daytime mitzvot.
Full study guide: Jewish Holidays
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