Podcasts about Haman

“Mordecai sent this reply to Esther: ‘Don’t think for a moment that because you’re in the palace you will escape when all other Jews are killed. If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?’” (Esther 4:13–14 NLT) The book of Esther contains a wonderfully dramatic story of a young Jewish girl named Esther who became queen of Persia after essentially winning a beauty contest. She was taken into the palace of the king, where she enjoyed the finest food, wore the most beautiful clothing, and was given numerous servants to do her bidding. She lived in the lap of luxury. Hers might have been the ultimate feel-good, rags-to-riches story, but for one significant detail. There was a wicked man named Haman who worked for the king. Haman hated the Jewish people. (He didn’t know about Queen Esther’s background.) He hated them so much, in fact, that he devised a plan to exterminate all Jews living in the kingdom. Esther had an uncle named Mordecai, who became aware of Haman’s genocidal plan. Mordecai turned to the only person he knew who was in a position to counter Haman’s influence with the king: his niece, Esther. At first, Esther was understandably afraid to intervene. She had no idea how much clout she actually had. If she miscalculated, she would be putting her own life at risk. So, Mordecai sent this message to Esther: “Don’t think for a moment that because you’re in the palace you will escape when all other Jews are killed. If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” (Esther 4:13–14 NLT). His words moved Esther, who intervened with the king and foiled Haman’s plot. The courageous young woman saved her people because she recognized that God had put her in a specific place for a specific reason. Her story serves as an inspiration to all believers. It’s unlikely that any of us will be called by the Lord to avert genocide. But that doesn’t change the fact that we all play key roles in God’s plan—even if we may not fully understand what those roles are. Who’s to say God hasn’t put you where you are right now for such a time as this? In whatever situation you find yourself, seize the moment. Do what you can. That’s what Esther boldly did. God says in Joshua 1:9, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (NLT). If you are fearlessly faithful to God in the circumstances you find yourself in, He will accomplish amazing things in and through you. Reflection question: Why might God have placed you in your present circumstances? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have we just entered into a season that is one of the most unpredictable since the Shah was overthrown in 1979? Even with the strength that President Reagan showed in releasing the American hostages from Iran’s volatile and brutal grip back then, perhaps President Trump has shown the most courage and resolve we have seen in decades with his Operation Fury to take out the wicked Ayatollah “Haman” Khameini. While some of the leftier among us are crying outrage just because it’s Trump, most citizens of the globe recognize the fact that the world, and the Mideast in particular, need LESS Khameinis, not more – or even one – and clearly Trump agrees. Siding with a tyrannical Islamic regime that kills its own is a form of insanity that no one can defend from a human standpoint. At any rate, God is working, because if it is as late as we think it is, it’s all part of Bible prophecy. Back in the 70s, for less than one dollar, one could purchase a Bic lighter and set stuff on fire easily. In today’s Mideast, with hatred all around stewing and brewing, especially for Israel, it doesn’t take much more than one of those to invoke a regional war. Tim and Mary invite you to be watching and waiting with them on our weekly Headline Days.

IntroductionThe moment has finally arrived. After weeks of tension, Esther and Mordecai find themselves trapped in a kingdom where royal decrees cannot be overturned. A decree looms over their heads: the jews are to be annihilated. The clock is ticking, and the 11-month timeframe continues to get closer. Esther is dragging her feet by engaging in two banquets. Is this another Marie Antoinette who has an attitude, let them eat cake? What is more, when she lists her requests, she speaks first of her inconvenience. What about the horror of ethnic cleansing? What about the horror of people trying to destroy God's plan by slaughtering his promised people? Esther's AnswerEsther has not been characterized as very wise. In fact, she has just been led around and told what to do. She does not seem self-willed or competent. We learn that Esther is very savvy. Rather than making her request at the first banquet, she waits, which tests the king's sincerity. When the moment comes, she begins with a personal appeal: let my life be spared, and the life of my people. We might think that she is selfish. Rather, she is starting with one that the king loves. Then, with one bold declaration, she identifies herself publicly as a Jew, aligning herself with God's covenant people at great personal risk. Her restraint, her timing, and her courage together expose Haman for exactly what he is: the enemy of God's people. She is the queen of her people. Haman's FallFrom the moment the king leaves the room in anger, Haman's fate is sealed. The man who boldly celebrated the annihilation of an entire people is now on his knees, begging for his life from a woman. The irony runs deep. This is a kingdom that ruled that no woman would have authority over a man. Now determines what happens to Haman's fate. Saul caved, and Samuel finished the job. This man repeats the story only to find that history repeats itself. Haman does not cry out, but only begs for mercy. He wants to live again to tyrannize some more. He is not asking God for mercy, but begging the queen to extend his selfishly ambitious life. It is in his personal ambition he loses his life. The king walks in and sees him on the couch with Esther. His persistent clinging and begging for his life is what brings him down. The king is furious, and Haman leaves the scene. The king will not tolerate anyone attempting to assault the queen. Esther remains silent, allowing the king to make his hasty judgment. Tragically, the words ring true. You will fall (certainly fall in English), and he had fallen before Esther. Haman ExaltedIn a final twist of dark irony, Haman is "exalted.” He wanted to be exalted, and he got his wish. He is impaled on the pole that he built for Mordecai. Satan tried to triumph over God in Eden, but his fate was, is, and will be publicly declared. Haman is the reminder: God's purpose stands. The towering structure, visible across the entire city of Susa, was meant to display Mordecai's shame. Instead, it displays Haman's. The deeper meaning is that anyone who is hung on a tree is a covenant breaker. (Dt. 21:21, Gaol 3:13). The Lord's decree that Amalek would not stand is fulfilled, and the king's wrath is appeased the moment it is done. Haman, who schemed to destroy God's gospel community, ends on a tree he never intended for himself. And in that picture, we see the shadow of Christ. One is hung on a tree, and the king's wrath subsides. Christ did this not as a sinner, but as our Redeemer-Lord. Haman symbolizes the other side of this. The serpent seed will not rise and be victorious. ConclusionThe book of Esther is a story about the "B team,” which is flawed, unlikely, and outmatched by smarter, more powerful people. However, God's humor shines through in his sovereign purpose for his people. God does not take the easy way out, but God preserves his people so that they have life in the Lord. Esther could have stayed silent and saved herself. Mordecai could have bowed. Instead, God worked through their faithfulness to protect his people and establish his purpose. We must not grow too self-righteous. In fact, this story reminds us that Haman deserved what he received. We must remember that all of us are hamans. We all deserve to be hung upon a tree. The mercy of the gospel is that Christ went to that tree in our place, so that we don't have to. If God could protect his people through the B team in Persia, how much more can he do so in Christ? That is our hope, our confidence, and our motivation as we press forward in this age. Let us cling to our redeemer. Let us live for him. Let us live in him.

In our program today, we'll continue the story of Queen Esther of Persia, whose uncle Mordecai became the focus of irrational hatred by evil Haman, who plotted to wipe out entirely, every Jew living in the kingdom of Persia. Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://www.vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hashem's Name is not mentioned even once in the Megillah, yet He is involved in every last detail of it. Hashem, who has the past, present, and future revealed before Him at all times, orchestrates events long before they are needed so that His plan can ultimately come to fruition. The fact that the palace of Achashverosh was relocated to a small city called Shushan Habirah was itself a tremendous hidden miracle. That is where Mordechai lived, and that is where the salvation of the Jewish people was destined to unfold. The Vilna Gaon writes that the fact that Vashti decided to make her own party — seemingly for no reason — was only because Hashem was setting the stage for her to be summoned and ultimately removed from her position as queen. Hashem was arranging events years in advance, preparing the path for the moment when salvation would be needed. Haman suggested that Achashverosh grant himself the authority to act independently in any matter that concerned him personally, without consulting his advisors. Haman's intention was clear. He planned to later tell Achashverosh that the Jewish people were not following the king's directives. That would be seen as a personal affront to the king, giving him full power to decree annihilation upon them. But this, too, was the Yad Hashem. For later, when Esther would reveal that Haman sought to harm her, Achashverosh would now possess full independent authority to decree death upon Haman without consulting anyone else. The very mechanism Haman built for destruction became the instrument of his own downfall. The Megillah teaches us how to connect events in our own lives and recognize the Yad Hashem within them. When we step back, it becomes obvious how intimately Hashem is involved in each and every one of our lives. Someone recently sent me a story that was told by Sruli Shain on Stories to Inspire. He heard it firsthand from Shuli Rosenblum, who works at Bagel Hole in Brooklyn. One Friday afternoon, Shuli Rosenblum decided to bring home some leftover chocolate chip muffins from the bagel store for his family. On his way home, he stopped by his parents' house to visit his father, who had injured his leg and was resting with it elevated. He wished his parents Shabbat Shalom and left the muffins there so they could give them to the grandchildren if they came to visit. Mr. Rosenblum had his leg elevated on a special motorized footrest attached to his recliner, controlled by a lever on the side of the chair. Early Shabbat morning, at around 5:00 a.m., he woke up and began learning Chumash while sitting in that chair. He dozed off. His sefer slipped from his hands and struck the lever on the side of the chair, causing the entire chair to reposition forward. Not only could he no longer elevate his leg, he could not sit in the chair properly at all. Since he needed his leg elevated to recover, he went outside to see if anyone was walking by who could help him. He saw a man and tried to explain what had happened. The man responded, "Don't worry. I'm a Shabbos goy. I know exactly what to do." He came inside and fixed the chair. Before the man left, Mr. Rosenblum wanted to give him something in appreciation. He offered him one of the kosher chocolate chip muffins that his son had brought over the day before. The man suddenly turned pale. "I can't believe this," he said. "G-d really watches over His people." He explained that he works as a caretaker. Every Saturday morning, he visits an elderly Jew in his nineties, Mr. Fried. He helps him get ready for shul, gives him something to eat, and then accompanies him there. Usually, Mr. Fried's wife buys him a muffin for breakfast. But that Friday, she arrived at the bakery too late, and they were already closed. The caretaker assumed they would not know the difference and bought a chocolate chip muffin from a non-kosher grocery store. He was on his way to give it to Mr. Fried when he was unexpectedly stopped at 5:30 in the morning and offered a kosher chocolate chip muffin instead. Both men stood there in awe at how perfectly timed their encounter had been. After Shabbat, Mr. Rosenblum called the Fried family to tell them what had happened. They were even more moved. They explained that their father would often tell them that during the Holocaust, there were times he did not eat for days because he refused to eat anything non-kosher. Now, decades later, Hashem protected him once again, ensuring that his lifelong commitment to kashrut remained intact, even though he had no idea what was unfolding behind the scenes. Hashem is involved in every moment of every person's life.

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Purim and Persia: Then and Now What lessons can we learn from Purim about today's events in Iran? How do we connect the dots of many seemingly fragmented events now and throughout history? Why would anyone think of reading the Megillah backwards? What are the parallels between ancient and modern-day Persia? Is it providential that Khamenei and his cohorts were wiped out while we were reading the Torah portion about obliterating Amalek?  What happened on Purim 1953 when the Rebbe led the chassidism in shouting hoo-ra hoo-ra three times, and its connection to Stalin's death that night? How does that apply to our times? What was the general theme of the maamar the Rebbe delivered then? What is the central message of Purim? Why is G-d's name not mentioned in the Megillah? If our enemies cannot hurt us within the structures of nature, how do we explain tragedies that we suffered throughout history? How do we reconcile the Purim miracle being dressed up in nature and the fact that it was connected to Purim/lots, which is a level beyond nature? Why would we be obligated to reach a point where we can't distinguish between “blessed is Mordechai and cursed is Haman”? If the “Guardian of Israel does not slumber or sleep” why does it say that the “king's sleep was disturbed that night”? Why is golus (exile) compared to sleep and dreams? How do we access the transcendent power of Purim today? What is the meaning of the expression “anyone who stretches out their hand is given”? What can I do to ensure that these blessings are fulfilled in my life? What happened on Purim 60 years ago? Why did we not take spoils in Persia as we did in Egypt? Now that the world's biggest terrorist Khamenei is gone what comes next? Is this a prelude to Moshiach? 

Today in History: Haman plotted his wicked scheme to kill all the Jews on this day (see Esther 3:13). Thanks to Queen Esther, the Jewish people were also given the right to defend themselves from their enemies on this day (see Esther 8:12–13). The Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Ester) is a short fast on the Jewish calendar that lasts from sunrise to sunset. It falls shortly before Purim to remember the three days Esther and the Jewish people fasted to be saved from Haman's evil plot (see Esther 4:15- 16).This week's portion is called Ki Tisa (When you count)TORAH PORTION: Exodus 31:18–33:11GOSPEL PORTION: Luke 1:26–38What verse spoke to you most today and why?Did you learn something about God?Daily Bread for Kids is a daily Bible reading podcast where we read through the Torah and the Gospels in one year! Helping young Bible-readers to study God's Word, while also discovering its Jewish context!THE KIDS' JOURNAL is available from ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://arielmedia.shop⁠⁠⁠⁠BUSY MOMS who want to follow the Daily Bread readings on podcast for adults, can go to ⁠⁠https://dailybreadmoms.com⁠⁠The Bible translation we are reading from is the Tree of Life Version (TLV) available from the Tree of Life Bible Society.INSTAGRAM: @dailybreadkids @arielmediabooks @dailybreadmomsTags: #DailyBreadMoms #DailyBreadJournal #BibleJournaling #Messianic #BiblePodcast #BiblicalFeasts #Journal #biblereadingplan #Messiah #JewishRoots #Yeshua #GodIsInControl #OneYearBible #MomLife #MotherCulture #FaithFilledMama #BiblicalWomanhood #Proverbs31woman

In this timely episode leading into Purim 5786 (2026), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reviews the laws of reading the Megillah from Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141. He begins with the joy of Adar ("When Adar enters, joy increases"), the four special Parshiyot read in the lead-up (Shekalim, Zachor, Parah, HaChodesh), and the Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Esther) on the 13th of Adar (Monday, March 2, 2026, from dawn to nightfall), which commemorates the fasts in the Purim story and is lenient for those in need (e.g., pregnant/nursing women, the ill). The fast humbles us, recognizing Hashem's aid in times of distress.The focus shifts to Megillah reading: obligations for men, women, and children to hear it both night (after stars out, Monday night March 2) and day (Tuesday, March 3); proper synagogue setting with minyan preferred for greater honor to Hashem; three before-blessings (Al Mikra Megillah, She'asah Nissim, Shehecheyanu—with Shehecheyanu at night for Megillah, daytime for the other mitzvot: mishloach manot, matanot la'evyonim, seudat Purim); after-blessing (Harav Et Riveinu); and key customs like reading the ten sons of Haman in one breath, noise at Haman's name (but carefully to avoid missing words), dressing festively, lighting candles upon return home, and adding Al HaNissim in prayers/meals.Additional details include: half-shekel donation (Machatzit Hashekel) before Megillah; no preparation (Maichin) on Shabbos for post-Shabbos Megillah if Purim Sunday; reading from kosher scroll preferred (Chumash ok without blessing if no scroll); Kavanah (intent) for reader and listeners; special rules for mourners/Onein; and early synagogue attendance on Purim morning with Torah reading of Amalek. He notes current events echoing Persia/Iran parallels and invites questions for the Ask Away segment.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #35._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 1, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 2, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Purim, #Megillah, #TaanitEsther, #FastOfEsther, #AdarJoy, #AlHaNissim, #Shehecheyanu, #MishloachManot, #MatanotLaEvyonim, #SeudatPurim, #JewishHolidays ★ Support this podcast ★

Whoa, friends… this story flips upside down faster than you can say “royal feast!”

We discuss why the gallows were so high.

Nathan Meckley shares the story of Esther, Malachi and Haman concluding with the message that we may not choose the time in which we live, but we do discern how we live and who we will be.

In this timely episode leading into Purim 5786 (2026), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reviews the laws of reading the Megillah from Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 141. He begins with the joy of Adar ("When Adar enters, joy increases"), the four special Parshiyot read in the lead-up (Shekalim, Zachor, Parah, HaChodesh), and the Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Esther) on the 13th of Adar (Monday, March 2, 2026, from dawn to nightfall), which commemorates the fasts in the Purim story and is lenient for those in need (e.g., pregnant/nursing women, the ill). The fast humbles us, recognizing Hashem's aid in times of distress.The focus shifts to Megillah reading: obligations for men, women, and children to hear it both night (after stars out, Monday night March 2) and day (Tuesday, March 3); proper synagogue setting with minyan preferred for greater honor to Hashem; three before-blessings (Al Mikra Megillah, She'asah Nissim, Shehecheyanu—with Shehecheyanu at night for Megillah, daytime for the other mitzvot: mishloach manot, matanot la'evyonim, seudat Purim); after-blessing (Harav Et Riveinu); and key customs like reading the ten sons of Haman in one breath, noise at Haman's name (but carefully to avoid missing words), dressing festively, lighting candles upon return home, and adding Al HaNissim in prayers/meals.Additional details include: half-shekel donation (Machatzit Hashekel) before Megillah; no preparation (Maichin) on Shabbos for post-Shabbos Megillah if Purim Sunday; reading from kosher scroll preferred (Chumash ok without blessing if no scroll); Kavanah (intent) for reader and listeners; special rules for mourners/Onein; and early synagogue attendance on Purim morning with Torah reading of Amalek. He notes current events echoing Persia/Iran parallels and invites questions for the Ask Away segment.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #35._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 1, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 2, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Purim, #Megillah, #TaanitEsther, #FastOfEsther, #AdarJoy, #AlHaNissim, #Shehecheyanu, #MishloachManot, #MatanotLaEvyonim, #SeudatPurim, #JewishHolidays ★ Support this podcast ★

התוכן ביטול גזירת המן היתה ע"י קיום בקשת אסתר "לך כנוס את כל היהודים וצומו עלי שלשת ימים". ובזה מצינו חידוש מיוחד שגם הטף השתתפו בצום. וזה לא הי' מצד חינוך, כי: 1) התחלת החינוך בכלל, ובפרט – לתענית, הוא בגיל מאוחר יותר, וגם אז – רק לשעות, ולא "שלשת ימים"! 2) מלשון המדרש משמע שביטול הגזירה הי' בעיקר בזכות הטף, דמזה משמע שזה לא הי' אצלם רק בתור חינוך. 3) ענין החינוך בכלל הוא כדי להרגיל אותו לזמן החיוב, אבל צום זה הי' חיוב חד פעמי! ומכ"ז מוכח שהכוונה ב"וצומו עלי וגו'" היתה לכתחילה גם לקטנים. והביאור: גם אצל הגדולים לא הי' ביטול הגזירה בזכות השכל שלהם אלא מצד קטנות (וביטול) השכל שלהם – מסירות הנפש להקב"ה באופן ד"עד דלא ידע". ההוראה ממ"ש במדרש שמתי שאמותיהם של התינוקות רצו להביא להם אוכל – סירבו, והמשיכו בתעניתם: מצד א' צ"ל לאמא רגש מיוחד של רחמנות על ילדיהן. אבל מצד שני – מיד כאשר שומעת שמרדכי אומר להם לצום – נופלות השאלות ונותנת לילדים לקיים הוראותיו! ב' חלקים מהתוועדות פורים ה'תשכ"ח ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=02-03-2026 Synopsis Haman's decree was annulled when the Jewish people fulfilled Esther's request to “Go, assemble all the Jews and fast on my behalf…do not eat and do not drink for three days…” Here we find something unparalleled – that even the children fasted. And it wasn't for purposes of chinuch because: (1) Children are not trained to fast until an older age, and even then, only for a few hours, not for three days. (2) The Midrash implies that Haman's decree was annulled primarily in the merit of the children fasting, which indicates that their fasting was an integral part of the fast, not just for purposes of chinuch. (3) The purpose of chinuch is to train a child to do something that he will later be obligated to do, whereas this was a one-time fast that the children would not have to observe in the future. rather, the explanation is as follows: Even for the adults, the decree was annulled not because of their intellect, but because of the childlike property within them (and the bitul of their intellect), namely, their mesirus nefesh in the manner of ad d'lo yada (“until one does not know…”). The Midrash says that when the mothers wanted to bring food to their children, the children refused and insisted on continuing to fast with Mordechai. The lesson is that while it is true that a mother must have a sense of compassion, especially for her children, nevertheless, the moment she hears that Mordechai instructed the children to fast, all her questions fall away and she allows the children to fulfill his directive.2 excerpts from farbrengen of Purim 5728 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=02-03-2026 לזכות אהרן דוד הלוי בן הדרה שי' ליום ההולדת שלו י"ג אדרלשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות‏*לזכות הת' חיים שי' יוניק ליום ההולדת שלו י"ג אדר - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובותנדבת הוריו ר' דוד וזוגתו מרת חנה שיחיו יוניק

B"H Anybody can convert to Judaism. This is a Purim message to anyone converting, thinking about converting, or who has already joined our people. According to many opinions in Jewish law, even someone descended from Amalek — the arch enemy of the Jewish people — can fully become Jewish if they renounce that path and choose Torah. Purim teaches v'nahafoch hu. Things can turn completely for the good. Our Sages say that descendants of Haman learned Torah in Bnei Brak. That means history is not destiny. The past does not trap the soul. Teshuva is real. Turning is real. Becoming is real. So if you're carrying shame about where you come from, let Purim speak to you. The gates are open. Your neshama is deeper than any costume, deeper than any past. If you choose this people and this path with sincerity, you are embraced. Purim Sameach. #Purim #Conversion #JewishConvert #Judaism #VenafochHu To watch Torah Thoughts in video format, click HERE Subscribe to the Torah Thoughts BLOG for exclusive written content! Please like, share and subscribe wherever you find this!

How does the story of Purim relate to us today? Can a holiday that has its origins in ancient Persia giva us insight of how to live today? In this episode Rabbi Kohn discusses Purim and two fundamental lessons that we can take out of this amazing holiday.  Subscribe to The Pirkei Avos Podcast. Living with Torah ethics. For questions or comments please email RabbiShlomoKohn@gmail.com. Chapters (00:00:00) - The Story of Purim(00:05:49) - The Story of Purim(00:12:44) - The Purim Story of Haman(00:15:50) - The Story of Purim(00:21:59) - A mechitza partition(00:24:40) - The Message of Purim(00:27:46) - Esther the Queen of Purim

Everyone loves the festival of Purim. What's not to love about it? You get dressed up. You make noise when they say Haman. You give gifts to the poor and foodstuffs to your friends. It's the one time a year you can drink guiltlessly. But what is the essence of the Festival? What are we […]

This wasn't just another Shabbat. This was the kind of Shabbat that reminds you history isn't something we read, it's something we walk into.At Chabad NDG in Montreal, a Persian-themed Shabbat table became something deeper: a meeting point between ancient Persia and modern Iran. Between the story of Haman and the voices of real Iranian activists fighting for freedom today. Between fear… and courage.Then came the moment no one planned.Walking to synagogue the next morning, before even hearing the news, the streets began to speak. Neighbors stopped, embraced, thanked. By the afternoon, the entire area around Chabad NDG filled with music, celebration, life. And suddenly, an ancient custom, making noise for Haman felt different.Because this isn't just about a villain from 2,500 years ago.From medieval children smashing stones with his name, to the teachings of the Rebbe, to a Midrash where noise literally drives away darkness—this episode explores a powerful idea:Sometimes holiness isn't quiet. Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do… is make noise. Not noise of chaos. Noise of clarity. Noise that says: Didan Natzach. We are still here.Key TakeawaysHaman is not just a character, he's a pattern. Every generation meets its version of Amalek. The question isn't if, it's how we respond.Noise can be holy. From ancient Jewish customs to Midrashic stories, making noise isn't childish, it's spiritual resistance. It's the soul refusing to be silent in the face of darkness.Joy is not denial, it's defiance. The celebrations outside weren't ignoring reality. They were transforming it. That's the deepest Purim energy: turning fear into song.The street became a synagogue. When neighbors hug you, when music fills the air, when gratitude replaces tension, you realize holiness doesn't only live inside walls.Children understand something we forget. They bang, they stomp, they erase Haman without overthinking it. There's a purity in that. A clarity adults sometimes lose.“Didan Natzach” is not just a phrase, it's a posture. It means: we don't wait for darkness to pass. We confront it. Together. Loudly. Joyfully.Available now:Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Forgiveness-Experiment-What-Would-Your/dp/1069217638Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR2QNJL6Audiobook: https://bit.ly/4tPFZhVSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Gemara Megilla 12b, Esther Rabba 4:12- seemingly contradictory statements of Chazal revolving around the first letters of Haman teach us a lesson in the relationship between spouses.

Send a textThis wasn't just another Shabbat. This was the kind of Shabbat that reminds you history isn't something we read, it's something we walk into.At Chabad NDG in Montreal, a Persian-themed Shabbat table became something deeper: a meeting point between ancient Persia and modern Iran. Between the story of Haman and the voices of real Iranian activists fighting for freedom today. Between fear… and courage.Then came the moment no one planned.Walking to synagogue the next morning, before even hearing the news, the streets began to speak. Neighbors stopped, embraced, thanked. By the afternoon, the entire area around Chabad NDG filled with music, celebration, life. And suddenly, an ancient custom, making noise for Haman felt different.Because this isn't just about a villain from 2,500 years ago.From medieval children smashing stones with his name, to the teachings of the Rebbe, to a Midrash where noise literally drives away darkness—this episode explores a powerful idea:Sometimes holiness isn't quiet. Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do… is make noise. Not noise of chaos. Noise of clarity. Noise that says: Didan Natzach. We are still here.Key TakeawaysHaman is not just a character, he's a pattern. Every generation meets its version of Amalek. The question isn't if, it's how we respond.Noise can be holy. From ancient Jewish customs to Midrashic stories, making noise isn't childish, it's spiritual resistance. It's the soul refusing to be silent in the face of darkness.Joy is not denial, it's defiance. The celebrations outside weren't ignoring reality. They were transforming it. That's the deepest Purim energy: turning fear into song.The street became a synagogue. When neighbors hug you, when music fills the air, when gratitude replaces tension, you realize holiness doesn't only live inside walls.Children understand something we forget. They bang, they stomp, they erase Haman without overthinking it. There's a purity in that. A clarity adults sometimes lose.“Didan Natzach” is not just a phrase, it's a posture. It means: we don't wait for darkness to pass. We confront it. Together. Loudly. Joyfully.Available now:Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Forgiveness-Experiment-What-Would-Your/dp/1069217638Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR2QNJL6Audiobook: https://bit.ly/4tPFZhV Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

1. Monday Evening Is the First Day of Purim. 2. The Book of Esther Never Mentions God or Prayer. 3. Why Did Queen Vashti Refuse? 4. We Cannot Let our Wives Have Vashti as an Example. 5. Myrtle Becomes Ishtar. 6. Esther Is Crowned Queen. 7. Mordecai Discovers a Murder Plot. 8. Haman Is Descended from Abraham Through Esau. 9. Haman Instigates the First Attempt in History to Wipe out the Jewish People. 10. If I Perish, I Perish. 11. Esther Understood her Husband. 12. There Is a Jew in Haman's Gate. 13. A Sleepless King Is Under the Providence of God.

En quoi le festin d'A'hachvéroch était-il, pour Haman, un moyen de se débarrasser des Juifs ? Combien de Juifs y ont participé ? Comment se sont-ils dégradés ? Pourquoi le Satan pensait qu'ils ne feraient pas Téchouva ? Pourquoi Mordékhaï prenait chaque jour des nouvelles d'Esther lorsqu'elle se trouvait dans le palais d'A'hachvéroch ? En quoi est-ce étonnant ? Pourquoi est-il important de mettre du cœur dans le bien que l'on fait ? Réponse à travers un Midrach, des propos du Gaon de Vilna et une histoire.

התוכן במצות מחצית השקל, שבתחלת ו"ראש" פ' כי תשא, מודגש הקשר לחג הפורים, כמ"ש בגמ' "גלוי וידוע לפני מי שאמר והי' העולם שעתיד המן לשקול שקלים על ישראל, לפיכך הקדים שקליהן לשקליו", כלומר, מחצית השקל שנתנו בנ"י במדבר פעלה שלאחרי כו"כ דורות תתבטל הגזירה הכי חמורה על בנ"י! גם הענין ד"לכפר על נפשותיכם" (התכלית דנתינת מחצית השקל) קשור לימי הפורים, שהרי אז הוצרכו בנ"י להענין ד"לכפר על נפשותיכם", וגם בנוגע לחיי הגוף שעל זה היתה גזירת המן. גם "בן חמש למקרא" מבין בפשטות איך נתינת מחצית השקל פועלת "לכפר על נפשותיכם" – עפ"י פרש"י עה"פ "זה יתנו" – "הראה לו כמין מטבע של אש . . ואמר לו כזה יתנו"! הוא גם מבין איך עי"ז נעשה הענין ד"תשא את ראש בנ"י", גם מלשון "הרמה"; קשר נפלא בין מצות מחצית השקל ש"מהם נעשו האדנים" והיסוד של המשכן להענין ד"מפי עוללים ויונקים יסדת עוז" שדובר לעיל [תוכן המאמר דפורים קטן תרפ"ז]. ב' חלקים משיחת יום א' פ' תשא, פורים קטן ה'תשמ"ו ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=01-03-2026 Synopsis The mitzvah of Machatzis HaShekel (at the beginning and head of parashas Ki Sisa) has a special connection to Purim, as the Gemara states: “It is revealed and known  to the One Who spoke and the world came into being, that in the future Haman was going to weigh out shekels against the Jewish people; therefore, He made their shekels come before his shekels.” Meaning, the Machatzis HaShekel given by the Jewish people in the desert nullified the decree against the Jewish people that came many generations later. The fact that the Machatzis HaShekel serves “to atone for your souls” also has a connection to the story of Purim, when the Jewish people were in need of “atonement for your souls” (including for their physical bodies, which were the subject of Haman's decree). Even a “five-year-old learning Scripture” understands plainly how giving the Machatzis HaShekel brings “atonement for your souls,” based on Rashi's explanation on the verse “This they must give…”: “He showed [Moshe] the appearance of a coin of fire…and said to him, ‘They must give [a coin] like this.'” The child also understands how the Machatzis HaShekel “uplifts the head of the Jewish people” (“Ki sisa”). There is also a wondrous connection between Machatzis HaShekel, which was used to make the foundations of the Mishkan, and the verse, “Out of the mouths of small children and suckling babies You have founded strength…” (discussed in the maamar of Purim Katan 5687).2 excerpts from sichah of Sunday, parashas Ki Sisa, Purim Katan 5746 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=01-03-2026

What if everything working against you was actually working for you and you just couldn't see it yet? We recorded this episode a few years ago. We had no idea we'd be re-releasing it on a Purim like this one. Rabbi Prisman unpacks one of the most profound ideas in all of Jewish thought: that there is only one Force in the universe, and even what looks like evil is part of it. Packed with stories, Torah sources, and a radically different way to see your life. This one will stay with you.

In this expanded edition to a groundbreaking work, now in paperback, Lincoln and the Jews: A History (NYU Press, 2025), Jonathan D. Sarna and Benjamin Shapell reveal how Abraham Lincoln's unprecedentedly inclusive relationship with American Jews broadened him as president, and, as a result, broadened America. A conversation with Professor Jonathan D. Sarna. Co-authored with collector and scholar Benjamin Shapell, the book began as a lush coffee-table volume built around Shapell's remarkable Civil War–era collection: letters, photographs, and documents that reveal Lincoln's Jewish connections in real time. It has since been reissued in paperback by NYU Press, making it far easier to teach, carry, and assign. The shift mirrors the project's purpose: from a beautiful artifact to a working tool for rethinking Lincoln's world. Sarna stresses that Lincoln didn't “know Jews” in the abstract; he knew particular Jews who mattered. Abraham Jonas, an early ally, saw Lincoln as presidential material and encouraged the Republican Party to build a coalition of “outsiders,” explicitly including Jews. Lincoln also developed ties with German-speaking Jewish “48ers,” refugees of the failed 1848 revolutions who brought democratic ideals and anti-slavery commitments. Even in Illinois, Lincoln's visits to Jewish clothing stores signaled a new kind of everyday encounter between Americans and Jewish merchants. The book opens with a table of concentric circles of relationships between Lincoln and the Jews. Equally important is Lincoln's religious formation. Raised in a Protestant culture steeped in the Hebrew Bible and divine providence, he drew heavily on biblical language. His letters and speeches are studded with scriptural echoes, reflecting a worldview in which Jews remain central to God's historical drama rather than a superseded people. This helps explain his “live and let live” stance toward religious difference at a time when some ministers were moving toward more exclusionary theologies. Our conversation touched on Lincoln's reference to Haman from the Book of Esther in a letter to Joshua Speed. In an age of deep biblical literacy, Haman was a recognizable symbol of evil, later applied by some Jews to Grant after General Orders No. 11. Sarna also recounted the visit of a self-proclaimed prophet named Monk, who asked Lincoln to endorse a plan to “free the Jews” worldwide. Lincoln's witty, biblically informed response (from the book of Joel) both acknowledged Jewish suffering abroad and rejected the idea of a special “Jewish problem” in the United States. We also explored how 19th-century debates over the Mortara affair in Italy—where a secretly baptized Jewish child was taken from his parents by papal authorities—intersected with American slavery. President Buchanan's refusal to condemn Rome, Sarna noted, reflected fears that criticizing Church-sanctioned child removal could invite scrutiny of the United States' own separation of enslaved families. Lincoln and the Jews ultimately invites us to place Jews back into the center of the American story. Lincoln's friendships, his Hebrew Bible–shaped imagination, and his commitment to equality created a landscape in which Jews were not an abstract “question,” but neighbors and citizens. To understand Lincoln fully, Sarna suggests, we must see the Jews who walked beside him—and to understand American Jewish history, we must see how deeply it is entwined with Lincoln's moral and political world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In this expanded edition to a groundbreaking work, now in paperback, Lincoln and the Jews: A History (NYU Press, 2025), Jonathan D. Sarna and Benjamin Shapell reveal how Abraham Lincoln's unprecedentedly inclusive relationship with American Jews broadened him as president, and, as a result, broadened America. A conversation with Professor Jonathan D. Sarna. Co-authored with collector and scholar Benjamin Shapell, the book began as a lush coffee-table volume built around Shapell's remarkable Civil War–era collection: letters, photographs, and documents that reveal Lincoln's Jewish connections in real time. It has since been reissued in paperback by NYU Press, making it far easier to teach, carry, and assign. The shift mirrors the project's purpose: from a beautiful artifact to a working tool for rethinking Lincoln's world. Sarna stresses that Lincoln didn't “know Jews” in the abstract; he knew particular Jews who mattered. Abraham Jonas, an early ally, saw Lincoln as presidential material and encouraged the Republican Party to build a coalition of “outsiders,” explicitly including Jews. Lincoln also developed ties with German-speaking Jewish “48ers,” refugees of the failed 1848 revolutions who brought democratic ideals and anti-slavery commitments. Even in Illinois, Lincoln's visits to Jewish clothing stores signaled a new kind of everyday encounter between Americans and Jewish merchants. The book opens with a table of concentric circles of relationships between Lincoln and the Jews. Equally important is Lincoln's religious formation. Raised in a Protestant culture steeped in the Hebrew Bible and divine providence, he drew heavily on biblical language. His letters and speeches are studded with scriptural echoes, reflecting a worldview in which Jews remain central to God's historical drama rather than a superseded people. This helps explain his “live and let live” stance toward religious difference at a time when some ministers were moving toward more exclusionary theologies. Our conversation touched on Lincoln's reference to Haman from the Book of Esther in a letter to Joshua Speed. In an age of deep biblical literacy, Haman was a recognizable symbol of evil, later applied by some Jews to Grant after General Orders No. 11. Sarna also recounted the visit of a self-proclaimed prophet named Monk, who asked Lincoln to endorse a plan to “free the Jews” worldwide. Lincoln's witty, biblically informed response (from the book of Joel) both acknowledged Jewish suffering abroad and rejected the idea of a special “Jewish problem” in the United States. We also explored how 19th-century debates over the Mortara affair in Italy—where a secretly baptized Jewish child was taken from his parents by papal authorities—intersected with American slavery. President Buchanan's refusal to condemn Rome, Sarna noted, reflected fears that criticizing Church-sanctioned child removal could invite scrutiny of the United States' own separation of enslaved families. Lincoln and the Jews ultimately invites us to place Jews back into the center of the American story. Lincoln's friendships, his Hebrew Bible–shaped imagination, and his commitment to equality created a landscape in which Jews were not an abstract “question,” but neighbors and citizens. To understand Lincoln fully, Sarna suggests, we must see the Jews who walked beside him—and to understand American Jewish history, we must see how deeply it is entwined with Lincoln's moral and political world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

In this expanded edition to a groundbreaking work, now in paperback, Lincoln and the Jews: A History (NYU Press, 2025), Jonathan D. Sarna and Benjamin Shapell reveal how Abraham Lincoln's unprecedentedly inclusive relationship with American Jews broadened him as president, and, as a result, broadened America. A conversation with Professor Jonathan D. Sarna. Co-authored with collector and scholar Benjamin Shapell, the book began as a lush coffee-table volume built around Shapell's remarkable Civil War–era collection: letters, photographs, and documents that reveal Lincoln's Jewish connections in real time. It has since been reissued in paperback by NYU Press, making it far easier to teach, carry, and assign. The shift mirrors the project's purpose: from a beautiful artifact to a working tool for rethinking Lincoln's world. Sarna stresses that Lincoln didn't “know Jews” in the abstract; he knew particular Jews who mattered. Abraham Jonas, an early ally, saw Lincoln as presidential material and encouraged the Republican Party to build a coalition of “outsiders,” explicitly including Jews. Lincoln also developed ties with German-speaking Jewish “48ers,” refugees of the failed 1848 revolutions who brought democratic ideals and anti-slavery commitments. Even in Illinois, Lincoln's visits to Jewish clothing stores signaled a new kind of everyday encounter between Americans and Jewish merchants. The book opens with a table of concentric circles of relationships between Lincoln and the Jews. Equally important is Lincoln's religious formation. Raised in a Protestant culture steeped in the Hebrew Bible and divine providence, he drew heavily on biblical language. His letters and speeches are studded with scriptural echoes, reflecting a worldview in which Jews remain central to God's historical drama rather than a superseded people. This helps explain his “live and let live” stance toward religious difference at a time when some ministers were moving toward more exclusionary theologies. Our conversation touched on Lincoln's reference to Haman from the Book of Esther in a letter to Joshua Speed. In an age of deep biblical literacy, Haman was a recognizable symbol of evil, later applied by some Jews to Grant after General Orders No. 11. Sarna also recounted the visit of a self-proclaimed prophet named Monk, who asked Lincoln to endorse a plan to “free the Jews” worldwide. Lincoln's witty, biblically informed response (from the book of Joel) both acknowledged Jewish suffering abroad and rejected the idea of a special “Jewish problem” in the United States. We also explored how 19th-century debates over the Mortara affair in Italy—where a secretly baptized Jewish child was taken from his parents by papal authorities—intersected with American slavery. President Buchanan's refusal to condemn Rome, Sarna noted, reflected fears that criticizing Church-sanctioned child removal could invite scrutiny of the United States' own separation of enslaved families. Lincoln and the Jews ultimately invites us to place Jews back into the center of the American story. Lincoln's friendships, his Hebrew Bible–shaped imagination, and his commitment to equality created a landscape in which Jews were not an abstract “question,” but neighbors and citizens. To understand Lincoln fully, Sarna suggests, we must see the Jews who walked beside him—and to understand American Jewish history, we must see how deeply it is entwined with Lincoln's moral and political world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

In this expanded edition to a groundbreaking work, now in paperback, Lincoln and the Jews: A History (NYU Press, 2025), Jonathan D. Sarna and Benjamin Shapell reveal how Abraham Lincoln's unprecedentedly inclusive relationship with American Jews broadened him as president, and, as a result, broadened America. A conversation with Professor Jonathan D. Sarna. Co-authored with collector and scholar Benjamin Shapell, the book began as a lush coffee-table volume built around Shapell's remarkable Civil War–era collection: letters, photographs, and documents that reveal Lincoln's Jewish connections in real time. It has since been reissued in paperback by NYU Press, making it far easier to teach, carry, and assign. The shift mirrors the project's purpose: from a beautiful artifact to a working tool for rethinking Lincoln's world. Sarna stresses that Lincoln didn't “know Jews” in the abstract; he knew particular Jews who mattered. Abraham Jonas, an early ally, saw Lincoln as presidential material and encouraged the Republican Party to build a coalition of “outsiders,” explicitly including Jews. Lincoln also developed ties with German-speaking Jewish “48ers,” refugees of the failed 1848 revolutions who brought democratic ideals and anti-slavery commitments. Even in Illinois, Lincoln's visits to Jewish clothing stores signaled a new kind of everyday encounter between Americans and Jewish merchants. The book opens with a table of concentric circles of relationships between Lincoln and the Jews. Equally important is Lincoln's religious formation. Raised in a Protestant culture steeped in the Hebrew Bible and divine providence, he drew heavily on biblical language. His letters and speeches are studded with scriptural echoes, reflecting a worldview in which Jews remain central to God's historical drama rather than a superseded people. This helps explain his “live and let live” stance toward religious difference at a time when some ministers were moving toward more exclusionary theologies. Our conversation touched on Lincoln's reference to Haman from the Book of Esther in a letter to Joshua Speed. In an age of deep biblical literacy, Haman was a recognizable symbol of evil, later applied by some Jews to Grant after General Orders No. 11. Sarna also recounted the visit of a self-proclaimed prophet named Monk, who asked Lincoln to endorse a plan to “free the Jews” worldwide. Lincoln's witty, biblically informed response (from the book of Joel) both acknowledged Jewish suffering abroad and rejected the idea of a special “Jewish problem” in the United States. We also explored how 19th-century debates over the Mortara affair in Italy—where a secretly baptized Jewish child was taken from his parents by papal authorities—intersected with American slavery. President Buchanan's refusal to condemn Rome, Sarna noted, reflected fears that criticizing Church-sanctioned child removal could invite scrutiny of the United States' own separation of enslaved families. Lincoln and the Jews ultimately invites us to place Jews back into the center of the American story. Lincoln's friendships, his Hebrew Bible–shaped imagination, and his commitment to equality created a landscape in which Jews were not an abstract “question,” but neighbors and citizens. To understand Lincoln fully, Sarna suggests, we must see the Jews who walked beside him—and to understand American Jewish history, we must see how deeply it is entwined with Lincoln's moral and political world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Haman and Amalek set out to show how the world is "random"—turns out they were right, just not in the way they expected.

Mordecai's favor with King Xerxes? Come Bible Study WITH ME through Esther 6 and ask all the questions! Get your copy of MORE THAN GIVING SOMETHING UP: A 21-Day Guide to Biblical Fasting and Walking With God

Today in History: Shabbat Zachor (Sabbath of Remembrance) is the Sabbath right before Purim. There is a special reading about how the Amalekites attacked Israel in the wilderness. In the Purim story, Haman was likely a descendant of the Amalekites.This week's portion is called Tetzaveh (you shall command)TORAH PORTION: Exodus 30:1–10HAFTARAH: 1 Samuel 15:2–34APOSTLES: Revelation 12:7–17How does the Haftarah connect to this week's Torah Portion?How do the Apostles connect to this week's Torah Portion?Daily Bread for Kids is a daily Bible reading podcast where we read through the Torah and the Gospels in one year! Helping young Bible-readers to study God's Word, while also discovering its Jewish context!THE KIDS' JOURNAL is available from ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://arielmedia.shop⁠⁠⁠⁠BUSY MOMS who want to follow the Daily Bread readings on podcast for adults, can go to ⁠⁠https://dailybreadmoms.com⁠⁠The Bible translation we are reading from is the Tree of Life Version (TLV) available from the Tree of Life Bible Society.INSTAGRAM: @dailybreadkids @arielmediabooks @dailybreadmomsTags: #DailyBreadMoms #DailyBreadJournal #BibleJournaling #Messianic #BiblePodcast #BiblicalFeasts #Journal #biblereadingplan #Messiah #JewishRoots #Yeshua #GodIsInControl #OneYearBible #MomLife #MotherCulture #FaithFilledMama #BiblicalWomanhood #Proverbs31woman

The second party turns the tides, Haman is hung and Mordechai is elevated, counteractive letters are sent supporting the Jews and nations become fearful of them

Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu

Please take 5 minutes to fill out Ark Media's LISTENER SURVEY ____ Rachel Goldberg-Polin joins Dan for a Purim special to explain why this is possibly the most misunderstood holiday in Jewish tradition. Rather than simply a fun masquerade for kids, Purim presents a profound meditation on hiddenness, courage, and stepping into one's moment. Rachel walks Dan through the Book of Esther, unpacks its drama and philosophical depth, and explores why a story where God is never mentioned may be the most relevant text for a confusing, fractured age. In this episode: - The world of Persia and the backstory to Purim - Vashti, Esther, and the making of a queen - Haman, Amalek, and the logic of antisemitism - “For such a time as this” and the Esther moment - Where is God in a story without God? - Masks, hiddenness, and the illusion of randomness - Unity, generosity, and the mitzvot of Purim - Discovering your purpose when no one summons you More Ark Media: Subscribe to Inside Call me Back Explore Israel Votes Listen to For Heaven's Sake Listen to What's Your Number? Watch Call me Back on YouTube Newsletters | Ark Media | Amit Segal | Nadav Eyal Instagram | Ark Media | Dan X | Dan Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel Get in touch Credits: Ilan Benatar, Adaam James Levin-Areddy, Brittany Cohen, Ava Weiner, Martin Huergo, Mariangeles Burgos, and Patricio Spadavecchia, Yuval Semo 

We read Esther 1–4 and trace a path from a royal refusal to a national threat, and from hidden identity to public courage. We reflect on providence working without being named, and why “for such a time as this” still calls us today.• the fall of Vashti and a search for a queen• Esther's rise through favor and restraint• Mordecai's vigilance and the uncovered plot• Haman's promotion, pride, and genocidal decree• public mourning, fasting, and Esther's dilemma• “for such a time as this” as a call to risk• courage and providence when God feels silentIf you've got 37 seconds to spare, would you mind giving a review on your podcast app for this podcast? At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

Step into your royal identity. Join us for Purim: https://curtlandry.com/register Learn more about overcoming the spirit of Haman: https://curtlandry.com/reversal Watch the prayer meeting for Ambassador Mike Huckabee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkl2NYlpouY&t=204s In this episode of the Curt Landry Podcast, Rabbi Curt is joined by Megann Marcellino to discuss Purim's significance for Believers today and how to battle the spirit of Haman (Amalekite spirit), which manifests through violence and deceptive voices. Purim is not simply an ancient story; it's a spiritual strategy for us in this hour. As we look at Haman's attempt to annihilate the Jewish people through violence and deception, Mordecai's wisdom and integrity, and Esther's courageous obedience to answer her divine call, current events come into clarity. The same spirit at work in ancient Persia is raging now, and the same victory and divine reversal is in store as we choose to arise like Esther, trusting the Holy Spirit within us is greater than he who is in the world.Join Rabbi and Megann as they share symptoms and manifestations of the Amalekite spirit today, a strategy for spiritual warfare, and how to be positioned for divine favor as you speak, decree, and stand for such a time as this.

Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu

Dedicated by Josh & Bronya Levi for the yahrtzeit of Josh's mother, אסתר בת יצחק צבי ע"ה, on Purim, and anonymously for the yahrtzeit of מרת שרה בת ר' דוד ע"ה on the 12th of Adar.

PURIM Miracles You Didn't See | STUMP THE RABBI (261)https://youtu.be/EOrs6k2SC0kWe're commanded to read Parashat Zachor before Purim because Haman was Amalek, who tried his best to destroy us. We only survived through the mercy of HaShem and His endless miracles. Today we'll learn from the new book Nes Lehitnoses by Rav Efraim Kachlon about some of the miracles you didn't even know happened. Learn, Enjoy, Share and Be Holy.

Had Esther's intervention not succeeded, would Mordechai THEN bow down to Haman to save the Jews?

Coming at you this week with a SUPERSIZED epis, allowing us to cover everything from Qatarlson's interview with Ambassador Huckabee, to Jewish Olympic updates, and all the way to local politics featuring a local politician's interesting selfie vid complete with sleep-apnea inspired background audio.   Also featured this week are bodybuilding vids from the White House, updates on the craziness in Mexico and the sushi that Mr. Producer would absolutely never, ever, try.   ________   ** Give once, get it back weekly for a year while supporting Mesivta Shaarei Adirim! **   Visit: https://content.jcn.io/wii180 ________   ** Come to honor the Lomdei Torah from Flatbush and stay for the food, entertainment and inspiration! **   Melave Malka on March 7th 2026 Live address from: Rav Ephraim Wachsman  Zemiros with: Hershy Weinberger, Dovi Meisels, Yeddim Choir & Avrumi Berko Orchestra ________   ** Win a brand new ROLEX this month (and every month!) for as little is as an $18 donation while helping Mekor Chaim! **   Visit: https://www.timepiece4torah.org/ To benefit: http://mekorchaim.com/ ________   ** Protect your family today by visiting a Gentech Tech Center and working with the most qualified technicians about all of your tech needs! **   Visit: https://www.gentechsolution.com/ Call: 718-GEN-TECH ________   ** Town Appliance - For All Of Your Appliance Needs! ** No matter the budget, Town Appliance will get you the right appliance for your needs and give you the most value for your money. https://www.townappliance.com/ Call/Text/Whatsapp: 732-364-5195 ________ We have a call-in number where you can hear the cast! Tell your friends and family who may not have internet access! 605-417-0303 To Call In From Israel: +079-579-5087 To Call In From UK: +03-333-66-0768 Also! Subscribe for our bonus content by phone! Available at the same number. ________ Get official KC swag and show your support to the world! https://kiddushclubmerch.com ________ Subscribe now to keep us going and access bonus content! https://buymeacoffee.com/kiddushclub/membership   Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiddushclubpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kiddushclubcast Join our WhatsApp chat: https://2ly.link/27DRp Send us you thoughts comments and suggestions via email: hock@kiddushclubpodcast.com  

Esther approaches the king on day 3 of fast and initiates her plan with party 1 and then requests party 2, Haman wishes to kill Mordechai on gallows he built but conversely he is required to parade Mordechai around the city and then is rushed to party 2

Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu

Prophetic Insights into the Spirit of Haman | KIB 519 Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Description In this week's Kingdom Intelligence Briefing (Episode 519), Dr. Michael and Mary Lou Lake turn toward the biblical season of Purim and the prophetic lessons embedded in the book of Esther. As hidden things continue to be revealed in our day, Purim reminds us that God is not absent—He is orchestrating reversals, positioning His people, and bringing justice in His timing. Dr. Lake explores a powerful character study of Esther's three central figures—Esther, Mordecai, and Haman—and shows how Haman's identity as "the Agagite" connects the narrative to the ancient war with Amalek. You'll see how Saul's incomplete obedience created consequences that surfaced generations later—and how God raised up Mordecai and Esther to finish what Saul failed to do. This episode also examines the psychological and spiritual profile of Haman: pride, entitlement, obsession with honor, rage at dissent, manipulation of law and finances, and genocidal hatred. The discussion highlights how these traits mirror the "Amalekite/Haman spirit" at work through systems, propaganda, and bureaucratic power—then and now. Finally, we look at the hope of Purim: divine reversal—the trap of the wicked becoming their own downfall—and the call for the remnant to cultivate spiritual "mnemonic triggers" that keep us anchored in covenant faithfulness, humility, and the Word of God. Key themes: Purim, Esther, Mordecai, Haman, Amalek, covenant warfare, generational consequences, divine reversal, remnant preparation, end-times spiritual conflict.

The Purim holiday commemorates the dramatic salvation of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire from Haman’s plot as told in Megillat Esther. ut from a historical perspective, what do we actually know about this story? Did figures such as Haman, Mordechai, and Esther truly exist? KAN’s Sarahlee Tschernia spoke with Professor Yigal Levin, Chair of the Department of Jewish History and Contemporary Jewry at Bar-Ilan University, to explore these questions. (Photo: Yossi Zeliger / FLASH90) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Haman fell from power, did Mordecai gain possession of Haman's "Jeffery Epstein Files"?

What happens when God transforms a death sentence into a joyous celebration?In these last two chapters of Esther, we witness the final unfolding of "The Great Reversal" as the Jewish people move from fasting in terror to feasting in victory.  Esther 9-10 reveals how God's divine providence arranged one of the most dramatic turnarounds in the Old Testament. Episode highlights:Historic Rematch: How Mordecai and Esther (descendants of the House of Kish) finished the mission that King Saul failed centuries earlier.A Bold Request: Why Queen Esther asked for one more day of fighting in the citadel of Susa and the impaling of Haman's ten sons.Origins of the Feast of Purim: Why the holiday is named after the "Pur" (the lot) and how it is celebrated today with gifts, food, and the reading of the Megillah.Mordecai's Legacy: How Mordecai's mourning turned into a day of celebration as he rose to become second-in-command to King Xerxes of the Persian Empire and worked for the good of his people.Lessons for our lives today: The Book of Esther concludes with powerful truths about God's faithfulness and our calling:God Specializes in Reversals: What "impossible" situation in your life might God be transforming from mourning into joy?The Power of Divine Providence: Even when God's name isn't mentioned, His hand is never hidden. He orchestrates your story through what may seem like coincidences.Faithfulness Positions You for Purpose: Like Mordecai, your commitment to the welfare of others opens doors for God to work in unexpected ways.Join the Bible Book Club as we wrap up the story of Esther and prepare for our next season in the Book of Job!We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!Contact Bible Book ClubDONATE Buy merch Like, comment, or message us through Bible Book Club's InstagramLike or comment on Susan's Facebook or InstagramLeave us an Apple reviewContact us through our website formThanks for listening and happy podcasting!

Who is Haman in the Bible? Come Bible Study WITH ME through Esther 3 and ask all the questions!

Hi everyone! Welcome back to another episode of The Chai on Life Podcast. I'm Alex Segal, and today I am speaking with Rebbetzin Lisa Babich all about Purim. Lisa is a Queens-raised New Yorker, full-time Rebbetzin, and licensed speech and language pathologist. She has been involved in Jewish education and outreach since the age of 19, teaching at TBY, EMETT Russian outreach, the Jewish Enrichment Center in the West Village, and now Fifth Avenue Synagogue alongside her husband, Rabbi Eli Babich who is the Rabbi there.She was also very vocal during the NYC mayoral election this past year when unfortunately, Mamdani was elected. Lisa was instrumental in trying to unite the Jewish people in prayer to attempt to stop his win yet even when he did, she did not let the news get her down. She is a strong advocate for the Jewish people and has really become a source of chizzuk, or strength for me, when it comes to the day-to-day issues we're facing these days. Plus, the whole experience with Mamdani has eerie parallels to the Purim story. He really feels like a modern day Haman and I knew I wanted to speak with Lisa around this time to give us insight into how we can use this experience to connect even more to Purim and Hashem, as the ultimate goal.And she really delivered. She shares sooo much wisdom in this podcast episode and I'm so glad we talked it all through. In our conversation, we speak about:-How to see Hashem in this hidden world-What the lessons in the Torah can teach us about the times we're living in now-How she's already seeing Hashem's Hand through Mamdani's election and why she's not scared-Why unity is one of the most important things we need to be focused on and how to work at it in your own life when you feel helpless-Her thoughts on if we should all be moving to Israel right now-How she personally connects more deeply to Hashem and how to work to make it more of a relationship vs just a give and take -What it means to be a strong Jewish woman...and so much more!Connect with Lisa on Instagram at @lisababich9 or via email at lisababich9@gmail.com.

#444> To purchase the book: https://amzn.to/4rDbry4> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show