Today, the Jewish holiday of Purim, Jews across the world recall an ancient enemy from Persia, while Israel confronts a modern one in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
In Esther 8:13, the Jews are commanded to "stand for their lives" and take revenge (l’hikka-reim) against those seeking their harm, resulting in the retributive death of 75,800 enemies and Haman’s sons. Just as the Megillah mandates active self-defense and retribution while refusing plunder, like Israel is doing, Diaspora Jews today must decisively confront those spreading hate and antisemitic violence. This biblical precedent affirms that meeting existential threats with strength is essential to ensuring Jewish survival and security.
Mamdani and Carlson and Beinart seem very small to be included in this huge story. Let them be relegated to the crowd of predators who attack the stragglers while we flee toward freedom.
Love.your.essay !!!!!.....The history of Purim is so beautiful !!!!!!!.......In my humble opinion, I think the attack on Iran before Purim was just significant !!!!!..... Chag Purim sameach........
WOW! All the threads pulled together vividly. Saving for my now too young grandchildren. Chag Purim Sameach!
In Esther 8:13, the Jews are commanded to "stand for their lives" and take revenge (l’hikka-reim) against those seeking their harm, resulting in the retributive death of 75,800 enemies and Haman’s sons. Just as the Megillah mandates active self-defense and retribution while refusing plunder, like Israel is doing, Diaspora Jews today must decisively confront those spreading hate and antisemitic violence. This biblical precedent affirms that meeting existential threats with strength is essential to ensuring Jewish survival and security.
A wonderful essay. פורים שמח
Mamdani and Carlson and Beinart seem very small to be included in this huge story. Let them be relegated to the crowd of predators who attack the stragglers while we flee toward freedom.
Thank you!! פורים שסח!
Love.your.essay !!!!!.....The history of Purim is so beautiful !!!!!!!.......In my humble opinion, I think the attack on Iran before Purim was just significant !!!!!..... Chag Purim sameach........
Excellent