iSavta | 09.03.2020

You might be wondering why people in Israel are eating this Hamantaschen cookie especially during Purim? 

 

First of all, Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the triumph of Esther over the evil Haman of Persia. To know the story of Esther, read this article:

 

Purim: The Story of Esther

 

The tradition to eat Hamantaschen on Purim started in the late 18th century in Germany when pastry pockets filled with poppy seeds were very popular. They were called “Mohn Taschen” or Poppyseed Pockets. German Jews started making them for Purim in the early 19th Century and called them Hamantaschen, since Haman sounds like Mohn.

 

Some say the cookie resembles the three-cornered hat famously worn by Haman. Today, Hamantaschen are filled with Jam, Nutella, and other creative fillings and concoctions. 

 

On Purim, it is a tradition to make and gift Hamantaschen, wear costumes and yes, get drunk. It is a special holiday that children are excited about. They get to wear the costumes they like and pretend to be someone else for a day.

 

As we celebrate this Holiday, we may remember the bravery and triumph of Esther. Happy Purim Everyone!