From the
LDS BIBLE DICTIONARY - FEASTS
The Feast of Purim (called Mordecai’s Day, 2 Macc. 15: 36) was instituted by
Mordecai and confirmed by Esther, to commemorate the overthrow of Haman and the
failure of his plots against the Jews’ (Esther 9: 20-32). The name Purim ("Lots")
was given in mockery of the lots Haman had cast to secure a day of good omen for
his enterprise (Esther 3: 7). The feast was held on the 14th and 15th of Adar
(the twelfth month). The 13th of Adar, which was originally a feast to
commemorate Nicanor’s death (1 Macc. 7: 49; 2 Macc. 15: 36), afterwards became a
fast, called the Fast of Esther, in preparation for the feast. During the feast
the whole book of Esther was read in the synagogues, and all Israelites - men,
women, children, and slaves - were required to be present. The reading was
accompanied by clapping of hands, stamping of feet, and clamorous curses on
Haman and the Jews’ enemies, and blessings on Mordecai, Esther, etc. The feast
was celebrated with great joy, shown by distributing gifts.
From
EASTON'S BIBLE DICTIONARY - Purim
Pur, Purim - a lot, lots, a festival instituted by the Jews (Esther 9:24-32) in
ironical commemoration of Haman's consultation of the Pur (a Persian word), for
the purpose of ascertaining the auspicious day for executing his cruel plot
against their nation. It became a national institution by the common consent of
the Jews, and is observed by them to the present day, on the 14th and 15th of
the month Adar, a month before the Passover.