What Happens When a Dictator Tries to Destroy the Jews? Purim Tells the Tale

The Twisted, Bloody, and Surprisingly Joyful Truth About Purim

Purim kicks off! Image from Unsplash

It was a celebration. The crowd swelled with Jews and Gentiles alike, all gathered to witness the execution of ten men who had plotted against the Jewish people. The King had granted the Jews an extra day to round up their enemies, including the ten sons of the genocidal Haman.

As the crowd surged forward, drunk on anticipation, a loud crack echoed through the square. The hangman pulled the lever, and all ten figures dropped, wriggling and squirming on the end of the rope. A cheer erupted. The party began. An evil plot had been averted.

It was a gruesome end for one of Judaism’s greatest enemies.

But were all ten sons guilty? In the reading of the Megillah (Scroll of Esther), their names are listed in a single breath, as if even uttering them could bring a curse upon future generations.

Purim is by far the happiest celebration on the Jewish calendar — the only holiday where you’re encouraged to get drunk while praising G-d. Every mention of the villain, Haman, is met with loud boos, jeers, and a cacophony of noise. Adults are expected to drink a toast at every mention of his name.

It’s a joyful, raucous occasion. Sweet treats are eaten, costumes are worn, and the streets explode with color and celebration. No sad endings. No Jews being punished. All the villains are slain, and a woman is the star of the show.

Yet, a darker side lurks within the story.

A vindictive slaughter rounds out the tale, culminating in the massacre of all Jewish enemies. And as an added bonus — the vengeful execution of Haman’s children. Was it truly necessary?

The Purim story begins with a beauty contest.

King Ahasuerus of Persia had indulged in a week-long bender, an elite follow-up to his celebratory 180-day feast. Drunk on fine wine and flattery, he boasted about having the finest harem in the land. To prove his point, he ordered his wife, Vashti, to be displayed before the ogling men — a trophy to be admired.