The Laws of Purim vol.3 no.5

Parshas Zachor: On the Shabbos before Purim we read the portion of the Torah which entreats us to remember the actions of the nation of Amalek. One can fulfill a Torah mitzvah with this reading. According to some one can also fulfill this mitzvah during the Torah reading on Purim day itself. According to many Halachic opinions women are also obligatedin this mitzvah.

Fast of Esther: The Fast of Esther begins at daybreak of the thirteenth of Adar (this year coinciding with the 4th of March) and ends at nightfall. However it is customary to hear the Megillah reading in the evening before breaking the fast. Pregnant or nursing women or one who feels ill are is not required to fast if it is too difficult. One who feels he will have difficulty fasting should consult a competent halachic authority.

Shekalim: Before or on Purim every adult male gives three half-dollar coins or their equivalent to charity. It is customary to give on behalf of all family members.

Megillah Reading: All adults are obligated by our Sages to listen to every word of the Megilah in its proper sequence during the night and the following day of Purim. It is preferable for one to follow the reading inside a text in order that he can immediately fill in any words that he may not hear from the Reader. Parents are obligated to ensure that their children ages eight or nine and older hear every word of the Megillah reading, preferably in the synagogue. Small children who may disturb the reading should not be brought to the synagogue.

Gifts to the poor: All adults must also give gifts to two poor people, known as Matanos Laevyonim, during Purim day. A woman may fulfill her obligation through her husband’s gifts. Although one fulfills this obligation with any amount of money, it is preferable to give the amount equivalent to a meal. Although these gifts must be given on Purim, one may appoint a messenger before Purim to secure their distribution on Purim.

Mishloach Manos: Adults must also give one gift consisting of two different foods, known as Mishloach Manos, to a fellow Jew during Purim day. A woman can not rely on her husband's gift but must send her own gift.

Festive Meals: One fulfills a Rabbinic mitzvah by partaking in at least one festive meal during the day of Purim. It is proper to rejoice in the evening as well. One should be very careful not to become inebriated to the extent that he can not perform mitzvos properly.

This issue dedicated to the memory of Devorah Felstein of blessed memory.

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