The Story
What was the name of the Persian king in the Book of Esther?
Ahasuerus / Xerxes
What does the word "Purim" mean?
Lots — referring to the lots Haman cast to choose the date for destroying the Jews.
What happened to Haman's ten sons at the end of the story?
They were also executed
Who raised Esther after her parents died?
Mordecai, her cousin
What are the sweet triangular pastries traditionally eaten at Purim called?
Haman's ear (Hamantaschen)
Whose name is notably absent from the entire Book of Esther?
God's
What was Esther's Hebrew name?
Hadassah
Purim falls on what date of the Hebrew calendar?
The 14th & 15th days of the month of Adar
How many days did Esther fast before approaching the king?
Three days
What was the law that made approaching the king without being summoned punishable by death?
Persian royal law — the king had to extend his scepter to spare someone's life)
What is the name of the scroll read aloud during Purim?
The Megillah — specifically, the Megillah of Esther)
What famous phrase did Esther say before approaching the king unsummoned?
"If I perish, I perish"
Why was Queen Vashti removed from her position?
She refused the king's command to appear before his guests.
Name two of the four traditional mitzvot (obligations) of Purim.
Hearing the Megillah read, giving presents of food, giving gifts to the poor, and enjoying a festive meal
What did Mordecai say to Esther that is one of the most quoted lines in the whole book?
"Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"