June 4, 438 Emperors Theodosius II (408 – 450), and Honorius (393 – 423)

Burning Effigy of Haman on Cross during Purim

Prohibition to Mock Christianity on Purim

The Theodosian Code, promulgated by Emperor Theodosius II in 438:

“Emperors Honorius and Theodosius Augustuses to Anthemius, Praetorian Prefect. The governors of the provinces shall prohibit the Jews from setting fire to Haman in memory of his past punishment, in a certain ceremony of their festival, and from burning with sacrilegious intent a form made to resemble the Holy Cross in contempt of the Christian faith…”

Haman on the Cross

Michaelangelo in the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican

Source: Council of Centers on Jewish – Christian Relations