The Fifteenth Day of Adar holds significant importance in the Jewish calendar, primarily due to its association with the festival of Purim. This day is celebrated as a time of joy and deliverance, commemorating the salvation of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.

Biblical Background

The events leading to the celebration of the Fifteenth Day of Adar are detailed in the Book of Esther. Haman, an official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus), devised a plan to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom. Esther, a Jewish queen, and her cousin Mordecai played pivotal roles in thwarting this plan. Through a series of divinely orchestrated events, Esther revealed Haman's plot to the king, leading to Haman's downfall and the deliverance of the Jewish people.

The Book of Esther 9:20-22 states: "Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far, to establish among them an annual celebration on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the days on which the Jews gained relief from their enemies—the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote to them to observe these days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor."

Observance and Traditions

The Fifteenth Day of Adar is observed as Shushan Purim, named after the ancient city of Susa (Shushan), where the events of Esther took place. While most Jewish communities celebrate Purim on the Fourteenth of Adar, those in cities that were walled during the time of Joshua, such as Jerusalem, observe it on the Fifteenth. This distinction is based on Esther 9:18 : "The Jews in Susa, however, had assembled on the thirteenth and fourteenth, and on the fifteenth they rested and made it a day of feasting and joy."

The celebration of Purim, including the Fifteenth Day of Adar, involves several key traditions:

1. Reading of the Megillah: The Book of Esther, known as the Megillah, is read aloud in synagogues. This reading recounts the account of Esther and serves as a reminder of God's providence and protection.

2. Feasting and Rejoicing: The day is marked by festive meals and joyous gatherings, reflecting the relief and happiness experienced by the Jews upon their deliverance.

3. Mishloach Manot: The giving of food gifts to friends and family is a central tradition, symbolizing unity and community.

4. Matanot La'evyonim: Gifts to the poor are emphasized, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy of the celebration.

5. Costumes and Plays: In many communities, people dress in costumes and perform plays or skits, often with humorous elements, to retell the account of Esther.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the Fifteenth Day of Adar and the festival of Purim highlight themes of divine providence, the reversal of fortunes, and the triumph of good over evil. Although God's name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is seen in the orchestration of events that lead to the salvation of His people. This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to protect and deliver His people, even in seemingly dire circumstances.

The celebration of Purim, including the Fifteenth Day of Adar, underscores the importance of remembering and retelling the accounts of God's deliverance, fostering a sense of gratitude and trust in His sovereign care.