The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, today issued a call to American Jewry to observe the Purim holiday in full accordance with its traditional meaning. The Rebbe called upon Jewish spiritual leaders to inform their congregants, and educators and parents to teach their students and children, about the proper observance of the festival. He pointed out that in addition to reading the Megillah (Book of Esther) on the evening and morning of Purim, and reciting the “Al Hanissim” prayer, there are two special precepts incumbent upon all to observe on the morning or afternoon of Purim, namely Mishloach Monos–sending food gifts to friends, and Mattonos LoEvyonim–donating to the needy.
“These Mitzvos can easily be observed,” he declared. “In the case of Mishloach Monos, by giving a friend two kinds of edibles such as fruit, cake, beverages, etc., while the minimal requirement in observing Mattonos LoEvyonim is to give alms to at least two needy persons. These Mitzvos are very easy to observe and should not go unheeded simply because of unawareness,” he stressed.
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