Year 5 - Religious education
How Jews mark Purim today
Jews: how does remembering maintain Jewish identity?
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will study three Jewish festivals and the stories connected to them: Rosh Hashanah, Purim and Chanukah. They will make links between the stories of Esther and Judas Maccabee and the continuing survival of Jews. They will examine diversity within these festivals.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to describe different ways Purim is celebrated and the symbolism of some traditions.
Key Notes
- During Purim the story of Esther is read at the synagogue.
- There are different local customs connected to Purim such as acting out the story and wearing fancy dress.
- Special foods are eaten including symbolic pastries.
- The festival reminds Jews of God's power to save them and overcome evil.
- It is traditional to give to charity and to give gifts of food.
Vocabulary To Learn
- hamantaschen: triangular pastries
- Purim: a festival that commemorates the saving of the ancient Jewish community in Persia
- mitzvah: a good deed
- charity: giving help to people in need
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- All festivals are solemn.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
During Purim the story of Esther is read at the synagogue. There are different local customs connected to Purim such as acting out the story and wearing fancy dress.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'hamantaschen'
triangular pastries.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: All festivals are solemn. Correction: In this festival, Jewish children act, shout, eat and dress up.
More Lessons In This Unit
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