The Megilla is read on both Purim evening and morning from a kosher scroll. If Purim occurs on a Shabbat, the Megilla will be read on the Thursday night and Friday morning before Purim. It is best to hear it with a minyan, but if that is unfeasible for any reason, it is enough to hear it read. Those who are able to read it with the correct trope (cantilation) can read it for themselves. But again, since one of the themes of Purim is the unity of the Jewish people, it is better to read and hear it in a group.

Before it is read, the Megilla is unrolled and folded into sections at the beginning of the reading. This is a hint to the letter that Mordechai sent out to the Jews throughout the kingdom.

Megilla Reading in the Shtetl

To fulfill the mitzvah of hearing the Megilla, it's important to hear every word. Therefore, when people make noises during the reading (as when Haman's name is mentioned), the reader should pause until all is quiet to continue again. He should repeat any words that were drowned out. The listener who feels that he/she missed some words, can repeat them to him or herself.