Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Megillah, Venice: Daniel Bomberg, 1521

Vinograd, Venice 45; Habermann 35

Megillah (Scroll), is the tenth tractate in the order Mo'ed, and, deals with liturgical readings from the Bible, especially with the reading, on Purim, of the Scroll of Esther (to which the word megillah particularly refers), as well as the correct manner of writing liturgical scrolls. Among other questions discussed are the qualifications of the precentor, and whether women or minors are fit to act in that capacity. The tractate also includes an extensive aggadic section which is practically a complete Midrash to the Book of Esther. The second half of the tractate deals with the sanctity of the synagogue and its appurtenances, and a variety of other liturgical issues including public readings from the Pentateuch and haftarah.