Tradition: Purim, marking the liberation of the Jews of Persia, 5th century BCE, is celebrated on Adar 15 in walled cities and Adar 14 in other cities. The obligatory practices of the day include: reading the Book of Esther, sending "portions" of food to other people, gifts to the poor, and the Purim festive meal. It is customary to eat three-cornered filled pastries ("hamantaschen") and to masquerade.

Sign of the Zodiak: The Fishes.

In nature: wildflowers are at their peak.

Written by Dr. Dov Herman, Bar-Ilan University.

The stamp was issued in 2002, one of 12 stamps dedicated to the months of The Hebrew Calendar. Designer: Miri Sofer. Zodiak sign stamp issued 1961, designer: I. Blaushild.