The Story of Purim

Once upon a time in Persia, there lived a king named Ahasuerus. He decided to throw a grand feast in his palace. Everyone from near and far was invited to celebrate. The feast was filled with delicious food and cheerful music. It was a celebration to be remembered.

Queen Vashti was the king’s beautiful wife. One day, King Ahasuerus called for Vashti to come to the feast. But Vashti refused the king's request. The king was very angry with her disobedience. He decided to banish Queen Vashti from the palace.

After Queen Vashti was banished, the king needed a new queen. Many young women were brought to the palace. Among them was a kind and gentle Jewish woman named Esther. Esther was chosen to be the new queen of Persia. She kept her Jewish identity a secret.

Haman was a powerful advisor to the king. He did not like Esther's cousin Mordecai because Mordecai would not bow to him. Full of hate, Haman convinced the king to issue a terrible decree. The decree was to destroy all the Jewish people in the kingdom. The Jews were very frightened by this news.

Mordecai knew he had to act quickly. He went to Queen Esther, begging for her help. He asked her to speak to the king and save her people. Though she was scared, Esther was determined to do the right thing. She planned to speak to the king, despite the danger.

Esther invited the king and Haman to two banquets. She knew this was her chance to talk to the king. At the second banquet, Esther revealed her secret. She told the king she was Jewish, and Haman was plotting against her people. The king was shocked by Esther's courage.

The king realized the evil plan Haman had devised. In his anger, he ordered Haman to be punished. Haman was to be hanged on the very gallows he had built for Mordecai. Justice had been served. The kingdom was safe from Haman's wicked plans.

King Ahasuerus issued a new decree. This decree allowed the Jewish people to defend themselves. No longer were they powerless against their enemies. The Jews prepared to protect their families and homes. They were filled with hope and courage.

The day of the battle arrived. The Jews stood strong and brave against their foes. With the king’s decree, they defended themselves fiercely. They achieved victory over their enemies. It was a day of great triumph.

After the victory, the Jews were overjoyed. They celebrated their survival with feasts and laughter. It was a time to be grateful for their freedom. Families and friends gathered to rejoice. Their joy echoed throughout the land.

To honor this miraculous time, a festival was established. It was called Purim. Every year, the Jewish people celebrate Purim with joy and remembrance. They tell the story of Esther’s bravery and Mordecai’s wisdom. It is a time of happiness and gratitude.

The story of Purim teaches us about courage and standing up for what is right. Esther and Mordecai are remembered for their bravery and kindness. Their actions saved their people and inspired many. The legacy of their courage lives on in every Purim celebration. And so, the story of Purim is told to children each year.