Pre-Purim Observances

The Torah reading of the Shabbat that falls on or before Adar is supplemented with G‑d's commandment to Moses regarding the giving of the half-shekel.

When the Israelites left Egypt, no nation dared pick a fight with them. Only Amalek, driven by profound hatred which defied logic, came to wage battle.

The day the Jews battled their enemy was a day of fasting and prayer. And fasting also preceded Esther’s approaching Ahasuerus. We commemorate these fasts . . .

The Shabbat before Purim is Shabbat Zachor. The day before Purim (in most years) is the Fast of Esther. Learn about the significance of these days and their associated observances.