Purim With Rabbi Kaplan

Learn about the mitzvah of eating, drinking, and rejoicing, and how these everyday activities become extraordinary acts of devotion. From a radio show on CHIN FM Radio, Toronto. 

This in-depth Gemara study of Masechet Megillah focuses on observances connected to the rabbinically ordained joyous festival of Purim. This mini-series opens with a discussion about its observances when a Leap Year includes two months of Adar. A fascinating analysis of this will eventually lead us into the iconic Mitzvah of Mishloach Manot, the Holiday Gifting of Edibles to One Another! _____________________________________ Tractate Megillah, Chapter One, Page 6b - 7a. Episode Three: "SCRIPTED IN THE STARS" As elaborated on in the previous two Episodes, our unique Jewish system of calendric calibration resolves the discrepancy left by 12 lunar months and the solar seasonal year by intercalating an extra [month of] Adar. This is what we call a Leap Year. Our Torah calendar governs many religious observances and rituals, and the extra month of Adar raises a slew of Halachic questions to be solved from Ritual Readings to Holiday Gift Giving. In our previous segment we were introduced to differing schools of Torah on the subjects at hand. Here, in part three of the mini-series, we seek to the identify the sources and jurisprudence for the variances in these Halachik approaches. As it fascinatingly turns out, a precise analysis of the Script in the Scroll of Esther can be understood in both directions! Our Sages will therefore augment that very verse with independently established Torah truisms to arrive at very different conclusions. All of these discussions are, of course, borne of our Jewish Calendar and are directly linked to the Zodiacal Heavenly orbits!

This in-depth Gemara study of Masechet Megillah focuses on observances connected to the rabbinically ordained joyous festival of Purim. This mini-series will open with a discussion about its observances when a Leap Year includes two months of Adar. A fascinating analysis of this will eventually lead us into the iconic Mitzvah of Mishloach Manot, the Holiday Gifting of Edibles to One Another! _____________________________________ Tractate Megillah, Chapter One, Page 6b. Episode Two: "RIGHT TO READ" As we learnt at length in Part One, our Jewish calendar requires a unique system of calendric calibration to balance the Lunar Months with Seasonal Years. Resolution is found in a Leap Year in which a 13th Month is added. This induces years that are pregnant with an extra month of Adar, which naturally births a litter of related Halachic questions about Public Torah Readings, far beyond solving the Mystery of the Megillah. Part Two of this mini-series on Purim observances probes the matter to deliver pragmatic and viable resolution!

This in-depth Gemara study of Masechet Megillah focuses on observances connected to the rabbinically ordained festival of Purim. This mini-series will open with its observance when a Leap Year includes two months of Adar. A fascinating analysis of this will eventually lead us into the iconic Mitzvah of Mishloach Manot, the Holiday Gifting of Edibles to One Another! _____________________________________ Tractate Megillah, Chapter One, Page 6b. Episode One: "LEAP YEAR" Our Jewish calendar – comprised of Lunar Months, and Seasonal Years – requires scheduling calibration and calendric alignment. Adar is the final month in the cycle, so when a 13th Month is added, it’s a second Adar. As Adar is the month in which we celebrate Purim, part one of this Mishloach Manot mini-series opens with an analysis of how the time engineering creates a Halachik question about the Public Reading of the Scroll of Esther. Because typically the observance of Purim is in the twelfth month, we are forced to ask: will the real Adar to please rise!

REDEMPTION SONGS ~ SCROLL OF ESTHER is an in-depth study series of the actual biblical verses comprising Megillat Esther that contains the canonical story of Purim. ___________________________________ Chapter Nine, Part Thirteen entitled: PERSIAN VERSION continues to clarify the opening thrust of the 26th verse of the chapter: why it's called Purim. This new offering opens with a brief review of the climax of the previous Episode: After the literal explanations for this holiday being named for the [random] mechanism used to plot Genocide left us wanting, we turned to mystical, spiritual teachings of Torah to paint a rich new picture of Purim. In this new segment we will move to highlight hues and sharpen resolution. This will enable us to successfully segue into developing a wider panoramic view. Yet, notwithstanding the newfound clarity, one BIG question still lingers: why "Purim" meaning "Lots" in Persian instead of the Hebrew word "Goralot?!" Once again, we will begin with the technical before moving on into a deeper spiritual perspective. The new view will endow us a profound appreciation of why in heaven a Jewish/Hebrew Holiday purposely received a Foreign Name! This Thirteenth Episode of Chapter Nine comprises the fifty-sixth consecutive offering of an ongoing, in-depth discovery series on the biblical Scroll of Esther.

REDEMPTION SONGS ~ SCROLL OF ESTHER is an in-depth study series of the actual biblical verses comprising Megillat Esther that contains the canonical story of Purim. ___________________________________ Chapter Nine, Part Twelve entitled: RANDOM ENCOUNTERS clarifies the first half of verse 26 with a laser focus on the Royal Rhyme and Reason they decided to call it Purim! Naming this Holiday goes far beyond the Lots thrown for date determination. The Random element of this unique Cause and Effect lead us to another major Jewish Holiday so kindred in nature yet observed in exactly the opposite fashion. Much like every proper biblical study; it's the subtleties in the script that enable us to appreciate the historic and spiritual consequences of this entire saga. This fascinating Twelfth Episode of Chapter Nine comprises the fifty-fifth consecutive offering of an ongoing, in-depth discovery series on the biblical Scroll of Esther.

REDEMPTION SONGS ~ SCROLL OF ESTHER is an in-depth study series of the actual biblical verses comprising Megillat Esther that contains the canonical story of Purim. -------------------------------------------------------- Continuing Chapter Nine, Part Eleven entitled: BOOMERANG documents the Queen's Entry into the Fray, the King's Written Word that serves to enforce a whole new reality of Law and Order, or a royal return in the form of a full 360% Back Atcha! When the King was finally did confronted with [his moment of] truth, targets were transposing. The edict -- spoken, scripted and sealed -- unraveled the meticulously woven web of evil and the entire plot turned inside out! He who came to murder was killed instead, and the original Pur-plan-persecution of Jewish genocide royally rebounded, with the story ending in a radically different way. Not by rebellion or defiance -- but rather in full keeping with, and by the Letter of the Law, the Architect of Annihilation is himself Annihilated. Most remarkably, without the scroll laying it out in sequence the entire miracle wouldn't even be noticed! The Eleventh Episode of the Ninth Chapter has been dedicated by Marty and Gail Bergman in loving memory of Gail's late father, Eliyahu ben Avraham Yitzchak. This exceptionally insightful segment comprises the fifty-fourth consecutive offering of an ongoing, in-depth discovery series on the biblical Scroll of Esther.

REDEMPTION SONGS ~ SCROLL OF ESTHER is an in-depth study series of the actual biblical verses comprising Megillat Esther that contains the canonical story of Purim. -------------------------------------------------------- Continuing Chapter Nine, Part Ten entitled: THE HATRED provides the reasoning for the rise of Purim's' prominence and posterity. Delineating the deep and demonic roots of hate we will begin to understand why this unique Holiday came to be, and its seemingly oversized place in Torah-true Judaism. It is here, with the singular focus on Haman, the archenemy of the Nation of Israel, and how he plotted Jewish Genocide that we are enabled to fully appreciate how the commemoration evolved into such a radiant time on the Jewish calendar! By scrolling the history of antisemitic hate, the true motive of Haman's intended mass-murder is revealed. Here, the Megillah presents pre-Purim persecution as an ugly manifestation of in-bred, age-old antisemitism -- not a personal score-settling grudge. Hear how the Purim Plot rivaled and even exceeded Pharaonic Final Solution as these devious decrees were designed to incrementally terrorize, demoralize, devastate to death and then ultimately annihilate the entire Jewish population! This tenth Episode of chapter nine comprises the fifty-third consecutive offering of an ongoing, in-depth discovery series on the biblical Scroll of Esther.

The ongoing CUSTOMS & CONVENTIONS series focuses on timely rules, regulations, and traditional observances related to the Jewish holidays and special times on our Jewish unique calendar! A fascinating discovery on the tradition of PURIM DRINKING. Why in Heaven would Halacha require Intoxication? Learn the truth about "GETTING WASTED" in an Episode overflowing with insight and inspiration. Making Sense out of Drinking till you are Senseless! Uncorking bottled-up secret Torah teachings on the traditional [mandated?] Purim over-the-top consumption of Wine is sure to bubble over with thrilling surprises. This complex mix of Torah-true vintage teachings features the kind of rich, satisfying flavour and texture, only achievable by blending the unique characteristics of a wide range of the literal, homiletical and mystical dimension! The creative genius of a contemporary Master serves to bring the concert of insight into a symphony of delightful perfection!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Fifty-Two ! Chapter 9, Part 9 - Verse 23 Narrates the story of how Purim became a Holiday. While our previous Episodes enabled us to better appreciate the unique observance of the miraculous transformation, this new Episode tells the story of the Great National Embrace of those very observances and why they didn't fade with the passage of time. The evolution of organic, elective celebrations to an obligatory annual Mitzvah observance was a bigger deal than most people realize. Here, we peel away the layers to reveal the untold story of how the timely inspiration was translated into perpetual perspiration and lasting commitment. This will lead us to discover the deeper cosmic messages secretly encoded into the way Purim festivities achieving eternity! This is the fifty-second segment in an ongoing series on the biblical Scroll of Esther.

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 17a - Class # 55 ' features a Purim-inspired analysis of pious past precedents that provide a series of profound lessons on the power and overriding importance of Torah Teaching and Learning! In the previous Episodes, we’ve already explored the telling descriptions of Mordechai HaYehudi’s popularity and acceptance as overwhelming but not absolute. This segued into a discovery of the overriding virtue of Torah. In this final segment of Perek Megillah n'Kra'as, we carefully calculation and reconcile the detailed timelines in Jacob’s journey. As a discrepancy is revealed, a historic message shines forth and drives the point home with devastating accuracy! This will complete the thesis on what pursuit and accomplishment is Jewishly considered to be the most virtuous and important of all! Episode 55 of this continuing Talmud study-series of Masechet Megillah, ends our series on the second half of the first chapter.

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Fifty-One (Part Two) Chapter 9, Part 8 - Verse 22 This Episode overflows with profound insight about one of the Purim's greatest enigmas: the Extreme Wine Infusion into our Holiday-mandated Feasting and Rejoicing! Our previous Episode completed the Purim Transformation Thesis, leading us into a fuller appreciation of this holiday is observed with such unique Mitzvot that foster and perpetuate its essence for posterity. Here, as we complete the study of the scriptural enactments, we zero in on Purim's trademark feasting and merrymaking that centrally features the lavish, and even unchecked drinking of wine. No other Torah observance is quite like this. In fact, to be sure, all other formal holiday celebrations pointedly shy away from it. This leaves us with the burning question: what in heaven does wine-induced intoxication have to do with holiness. Does increasing our spirits intake really increase spiritual consciousness, and how is it reflective of our said thesis of transformation?

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 54 A Purim-Hero inspired focus on profiling greatness, specifically zeroing in on what virtue, matters most? The Scroll of Esther states; Mordechai HaYehudi’s unique weave of political power and saintly scholarship ~ was supported by [only a] majority of his brethren. This prompts an exploration of what achievement is considered greatest of all. Our quest will lead us into a surprising discovery of what pursuit and accomplishment is Jewishly considered to be the most virtuous and important! Ultimately, this comes back to reframe our perspective on Mordechai HaYehudi's unusual style of leadership and enables us to understand why not everybody appreciated his unparalleled synergy of politics, scholarship, and saintly stewardship!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Fifty-One (Part One) Chapter 9, Part 7 - Verse 22 In the previous Episode we elaborated on the full story of how Purim was penned into Posterity by Mordechai and unique Thesis of Transformation that incorporates not only the Festive Days, but rather the entire month. This Episode opens with a continued development of that fascinating Transformation Thesis. Fully understanding this will naturally lead us into an appreciation of why it's observed in so unique and unusual a fashion. Our literal and conceptual analysis of Purim's unique Mitzvah enactments explain how they were custom designed to perpetuate the true essence of Purim for posterity.

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 53 Here we attain a better understand the extraordinary, yet enigmatic qualities of greatness possessed by these proverbial holiday heroes! We open with a homiletic reading of a precise word in the Scroll of Esther to reveal where credit must be given for the miracle. Perhaps the message on Great Leadership is about a partnership not isolation, or maybe it really is about the Power of One! Discover fresh context and background to enable a fuller appreciation of the unique, and unparalleled historic contribution of Queen Esther. Delving into the detailed description of Mordechai HaYehudi's unusual leadership, we'll learn why some didn’t fully appreciate the way he wove politics, scholarship, and saintly stewardship of the Jewish people together! This Episode is number 53 in a continuing Talmud study-series of Masechet Megillah, Chapter One.

A fascinating discovery on the Fast of Esther Lifting the Lid on the Tradition to Starve before Feasting! Our analysis of the earliest recipes regarding this pre-Purim observance yields tantalizing surprises. Looking back at the original ingredients it turns out there's more than one way to gel cohesion and consistency. Flavoured by an eclectic blend of the development of these Torah-true teachings traditions, a rich and satisfying presentation - punctuated with additions and preservatives - is then blended. Yet, the popular name indicates a very important ingredient is still missing. The creative genius of a contemporary Master Chef serves to bring this presentation to perfection! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Fifty Chapter 9, Part 6 - Verses 20-22 These are the verses of scripture that present the remarkable story of Purim's formal canonization and induction into eternity. The fascinating story of how the holiday (along with its sacred observances) was enacted! The long string of extraordinary events that led to the Jewish People's salvation capped with the stunningly successful battle of self-defense was so obviously miraculous; the nation erupted in celebratory thanksgiving to Hashem. To be sure, the powerful visceral and soulful reaction and joyous expression was undoubtedly Mitzvah oriented. Yet, it could easily have faded with time. This is about how the festive celebration was embedded into the DNA of Torah-truth eternity. Discover how Purim became the most joyous day annually observed on the Jewish calendar and took its place of honour alongside the proverbial pantheon of mandatory Mitzvot -- binding upon every single Jew until the end of time, and even beyond! The story of penned Purim Posterity and its unique Thesis of Transformation observed with over-the-top Rejoicing come alive in the careful study of these verses. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 52 Our Sages make a point of carefully analyzing the specific language employed by the scriptural narrative. That's because whether they were spoken, written, or read, the Words are telling, and they convey important details of the Megillah's Message! When a King’s belligerent tough talk miraculously shifted into softly spoken sensitivity. Why the Queen’s presentation of a letter written in hate, lead to a sacred inscription. How Words of Peace and Truth must be Transcribed and Told from a Scroll to fulfill obligations! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Nine Chapter 9, Part 5 - Verses 16-19 The Jewish People across the vast Persian Empire rose to defend themselves against their mortal enemies. The offensive against those actively plotting genocide was stunningly successful. On the morrow of fierce fighting, upon miraculous deliverance from Empire-wide enemies, the Jewish People celebrated. Yet, in Shushan, the battles lasted longer. Consequently, their delayed deliverance meant a delayed celebration. Ultimately its all comprised of the same joy. We will also then discover how walls will heretofore divide Festivities. And this is filled with deeper meaning and significance! Decoding these verses does far more than give us a better appreciation of the scope of the Divine Deliverance. It opens the door to a radically transformed perspective of the higher purpose of life itself. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 51 The Megillah makes a point of listing the Ten Sons of Haman who were killed by the Jewish people and (later) gibbeted in their offensive Battle of self-Defense. Here we will discover that it’s far more than reportage of facts and figures. The Talmud speaks of unique Mitzvah methodology for reading this enumeration of evil in a single breath. Clearly demonstrating that this Execution of Justice was No Simple Matter! More details about the unusual print prose employed conveys multiple messages in both written and audible Megillah media. This inglorious list of villains follows a unique code of written symmetry, striking some pretty awful chords. We'll also learn how this scriptural sonnet of poetic justice was designed to ensure finality, ensuring that this evil never rear its ugly head again! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Eight Chapter 9, Part 4 - Verses 11-15 As already narrated in the previous episodes, the Jewish People across the vast Persian Empire rose up to defend themselves against their mortal enemies. The offensive against those actively plotting genocide was stunningly successful. Yet as previously elaborated, in the country's Capital; Haman's home base -- they met fiercer resistance. A pitched battle ensues. Ultimately, the Jewish Defenders achieve full victory and the enemy's demonic leadership, Haman’s Sons, were hung. The many casualties were reported to the King, and he asks what else can be done to ensure the Jewish People's lasting safety and security. Although, to be sure, the debriefed King first required an ethereal lesson in anger management. At the Queen’s behest, and in view of Shushan’s still unresolved situation, Capital Jews are given yet another day to mop up. In fairness, the King does far more that agree, and by royal edict the Capital Battle rages for on another day. This battle too meets great success, and it culminates in another symbolic hanging. Might this additional eerily foreshadow futuristic destruction of evil too? Decoding these verses does indeed enable us to better appreciate the scope and breadth of the Divine Deliverance we experienced. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 50 Returning to expounding the actual verses of the Megillah, we focus on the stirring statement encapsulating the triumphant reversal of the Purim Miracle: From Darkness (emblematic of the fasting and mourning) we moved to Light, instead of Crying and Wailing we had Happiness and Joy Gladness, and in the place of Sackcloth and Ashes there was Glory and Honour! Delving deeply into the Megillah's superlative string of uplifting euphemism describing the Miracle Aftermath, here, many rich ideas will be presented. After elucidating each detail on its own with a variety of fascinating sources, we return to discover overarching common themes. This teaching will demonstrate how a solitary biblical verse -- spanning Spiritual Illumination to Covenantal Connections, our annual Holidays to Awe-inspiring Ornamentation --- reveals much about the Yiddishkiet at large, and ultimately encapsulates its very essence! This Episode has been generously sponsored by the Bloom Family for the merit of a young boy who is a regular viewer! 

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Seven Chapter 9, Part 3 - Verses 6-10 The miraculous turnabout of events and the rise of Persia’s pious new Prime Minister, enabled the Jewish People to mount a vigorous campaign of aggressive defensive measures across the massive 127 Province Empire. The offensive was met with surprisingly stunning successful. The Megillah's narrative now zero's in on country's Capital, Shushan where some of the fiercest fighting ensued. In the end this battle also meets success culminating in the critically symbolic and iconic Hanging of Haman’s Sons on common gallows! In this episode we discover why the Fighting in the Capital City was so fraught, as we learn all about the Ground Zero of Hamanite Haters. Even in this most dangerous urban battleground, justice was swiftly meted out. In revealing the many unarticulated details about this most important theater of war the miracle the Jewish People experienced emerges in full colour and high definition! Decoding these verses does indeed enable us to better appreciate the scope and breadth of the Divine Deliverance we experienced. A fascinating mystical overview of the story are included. An unexpected Kabbalistic reading of evil's violent end can provide deeply personal lessons for life. Profound ideas that can serve to stimulate meaningful character and spiritual betterment. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16b - Class # 49 Opening on the hems of a seeming Wardrobe Malfunction, in this episode we continue to focus on an early period of our unique Jewish Saga, when we were comprised of only Jacob's nuclear family. Clearly, our Sages saw the details of patriarchal precedents presaging the future. In their illuminated view, these actions taken in antiquity were impelled by prophetic intuitions. A story of larger larger-than-life spiritual titans battling dark forces in distant watershed moments at events occurring many centuries later. In looking beyond the obvious drama of a predictable emotional outburst, the Sages discerned more than ordinary tears, or weeping symptomatic of a typical Family Reunion that healed historic Sibling Separation! Mysterious messages to be deciphered include a secret message encoded into the choice of a gift item for an old man. Does every dog really have his day as a clever fox, and can smoke actually extinguish fire? Most of all, what in Heaven does any of this have to do with the story of Purim! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Six Chapter 9, Part 2 - Verses 4-5 This opening of the ninth chapter of the Megillah continues with the details of the primary technical cause of the stunning Turnabout, the Rising Star Mordechai, as well as the actual empire-wide campaign that was carried out. Here, we'll learn more about the remarkable power of Persia’s brand-new Pious Prime Minister. The Megillah chooses to highlight Mordechai’s influence and reputation, placing emphasis of the idea that it comprised key ingredients in the Jewish people’s total pivot. Yet, the big question may be asked was it really all about him? In shining a bright new light on the mechanics of the remarkable transformation, the Jewish People experienced, a whole new picture begins to emerge. It will clarify how and why we were able to transcend endemic weakness, instead moving far beyond being on the defensive. Mordechai's remarkable power empowered us to remarkably rise to a position of profound power. Now we assumed the offense and forcefully destroyed hateful enemies -- in full reciprocity! Decoding these verses reveals the extent of the Divine Deliverance we experienced. Our careful and insightful analysis of the biblical text will yield many fascinating details that will demonstrate how just how remarkable this turnabout really was. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16a-b - Class # 48 This Episode focuses back on an early period of our unique Jewish Saga when the nascent nation of Israel was comprised of only Jacob's nuclear family. Our Sages clearly viewed these patriarchal precedents as seeds planted; the results of which produced fruit many centuries later. Digging beneath the surface we will uncover a surprising perspective on a Historic Wardrobe Malfunction that seems to cause the breakdown of the family, yet ultimately lead to a fascinating Futuristic Fix! In stitching together seemingly disparate biblical stories, the greater sweep of Jewish history emerges as an epic tapestry from an ancestral Family Feud to a Triumphant Torah Leader. Here the Talmud will teach us how the Royal Robes of Persia’s Purim-era Jewish Prime Minister were woven out of the very seams of a Prized Suit from Egypt’s only ever Jewish Prime Minister. Ultimately, these ancient events presage the entire Purim story, as Joseph's sale by his own brothers, as well as his gift to Benjamin empowered Mordechai, his direct descendant, to bring salvation to the nation! A fascinating Midrashic statement will be introduced to launch a new thesis to clarify the deeper meaning of our Sages exposition of the Megillah's verses. One, that will enable us to fully appreciate the profundity of their teachings. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Five Chapter 9, Part 1 - Verses 1-3 This Episode, opening the ninth chapter of the Megillah. It highlights the remarkable transformation experienced in triumphant, miraculous deliverance from murderous enemies. This details the historical battle and victory annually celebrated with the extremely joyous holiday called Purim. In a stunning turnabout, on the very same day the Jewish people were scheduled to be attacked, and slated for annihilation – they rose-up, organized and avenged themselves. Surprisingly, their controversial and aggressive self defensive offence was acclaimed and even aided by Persia's political leadership and armed forces. Yet, the biblical narration of how "We the Jewish People Rose Up" to overcome our adversaries in ancient Persia is filled with nuance and rife with hints of many acts of Divine Deliverance. Our careful and insightful study will demonstrate how it was really G-d, not our courage that saved the day. Our analysis of the carefully worded biblical text will yield many fascinating details of just how wondrous our salvation was. The insightful information can and should leave us with a newfound appreciation of what we celebrate on Purim. It may also serve to rarify our perspective on challenging times, fortify our faith in Hashem and Jewish eternity and inspire us to reach for greater heights in life! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16a - Class # 47 This Episode opens with a re-examination of the King's Stroll-in-the-Garden. This serves to further clarify the general intent of the Sages in their expositions of these verses, and better appreciate the flow of their teachings. Reviewing the Monarch's successive [outdoor and indoor] jaded assessment of things is about more that simply setting the stage for the next act. Revisiting the scene allows us a deeply revealing look into the mechanics of Miracles and provides us insightful perspective on the nature of Angelic appearances. Having completed playing her role for "such a time" Queen Esther’s Victory is brought to fruition by an unexpected actor who preforms a great service for the Jewish people. Switching Loyalties at the last moment, an unlikely Man of the Hour emerges from the shadows to seal the fate of the Genocidal Purim Villain. In poetic-Purim turnabout, Haman is now Hung on the very same Gallows he had prepared for Mordechai. In analysis of the aftermath, many interesting details come to light. And as Angers’ Abate, a remedial sense of calm is now restored to the Kingdom’s of both Heaven and Earth. This all leaves us with many important lessons about life and higher purpose! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16a - Class # 46 This Episode opens with Haman, the-Hater-in-Chief still reeling in shock from the worst day in his life. His wise friends advise him that his experiences may likely represent a watershed moment. Far from being a temporary setback, his recent fiascos' probably spell the end of his meteoric political career. Soiled, disconcerted, and disoriented, he can't even contemplate his next move due to the sudden arrival of Royal Chamberlains. The pressure is on.... as he's got to get to his next royal appointment. Far beyond Esther's most optimistic hopes, the stage is now perfectly set for the dramatic showdown she had aspired to orchestrate. Against this exquisitely arranged backdrop, the penny drops on the Final Faceoff between The Beauty and The Beast. Our heroine finally makes her bold move! In her Moment of Truth, Esther’s shocking revelation dramatically alters her relationship with the King. At Zero Hour, a heart-stopping mistaken Finger Pointing mishap nearly turns fatal, and it takes an Angelic intervention to save the Queen's life! A walk-in-park should have calmed the enraged Monarch. But instead of lowering his temperature, he's further infuriated by the fresh air stroll because of a strange tree chopping encounter that further exacerbates an already volatile situation. Upon his return he witnesses a seeming Seduction of the Queen under his very nose!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16a - Class #45 This Episode comes directly on the heels of what may well been the most remarkable Horse-Riding Pageant in Persian History. Here are some salient details: Following a sleepless night, Persia's Prime Minister -- a raging and murderous anti-Semite -- sees his homicidal plans shockingly boomerang. Under great royal duress, instead of gleefully hanging his Jewish nemesis, he was forced to humble and publicly ingratiate himself before him. His incredibly harrowing, gut-wrenching day of personally waiting on, grooming and leading Mordechai the Jew through the teeming streets of the Nation's Capital become unimaginably more wretched when his daughter mistakenly showered him with sewage. And then, in her ensuing grief, committed suicide before his very eyes! This narrative of his public shame and degradation is immediately followed with the Megillah record of Mordechai's "returning" to his former location. Clearly an important message is was encoded here. The big question is: What is it?! Solving that mystery is our first order of business. And, once it's decoded, the stage will be set for the focus of this deeply insightful episode -- as the spotlight returns to Haman the Horrible, villain of the Purim story. He gathers his friends who suddenly seem very wise. No, they say, this is just a career impediment or even temporary implosion. It’s going to be most extreme, and by Divine Design! The Hate-filled Prime Minister who plotted Genocide against World Jewry was still reeling in shock when he is whisked off to a Royal Party he could do without. He is having a very bad bout of luck. But is his luck about to run out? Discover how wicked can be wise, when history becomes your teacher as Persia’s PM is soon going to sink into Sands of Time! This fascinating and little-known subtext of the biblical story is shocking, surprising, inspirational, and hilarious -- all at once. Best of all, this stunning story of Miraculous Turnabout is literally filled with insightful information and important Lessons for Life! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 16a Spoiler: In this Episode we will discover the Remarkable Historic details of How a Rebbe was Groomed to Ride a Royal Horse by a Raging anti-Semitic Prime Minister! First, let's Fill in the Gaps: burning with anger and bottomless hatred, Persia's Prime Minister makes the executive decision to fashion giant gallows. On it, tomorrow, he plans to gleefully execute the Jewish's people's beloved Torah Leader. One tiny caveat, as a Parliamentarian, the Rebbe is a public figure in Persian society. Such a publicized targeted killing will require royal approbation. Thinking it a mere formality, he takes the liberty of paying the King an unheard-of nocturnal visit. The Megillah records Haman's receiving the surprise of his life. He discovers that tomorrow the Rebbe he hates so deeply, is in fact already destined to Ride a Royal Horse, instead of Swinging from the Gallows. Some this teaching will focus on the King's command to the Jew-Hating Prime Minister to repay the Torah Leader for His loyalty to the Monarchy. When he attempts to protest, it swiftly backfires, and he is left with no choice but to obey. The dough of this narrative quickly expands as he arrives at the Beit Midrash. Then due to surreptitious palace interference, his ego is neatly trimmed down, and his arrogant, self-important veneer easily washed away! Then, just when Haman thought his degradation couldn't get worse, it went from awful to absolutely disastrous. In a classic case of mistaken identity, an unexpected shower of sewage is let loose -- from an even unlikelier source. It's an error that'll soil him to the core, especially when it ends with a fatal consequence. This fascinating and little-known subtext of the biblical story is shocking, surprising, inspirational, and hilarious -- all at once. Best of all, this stunning story of Miraculous Turnabout is literally filled with insightful information and important Lessons for Life! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15b-16a The Palace Drama is on, and the BIG question is: will the Queen's Gambit succeed? To fill in th the gaps: the private party was delightful, although not terribly uneventful. Amidst the flow of fine wine and vacuous banter, the now inebriated King, yet again, offers Esther “Half the Kingdom.” And inexplicably, she, yet again, politely declines. All she wants is yet another intimate little dinner with His Royal Highness and the Bigshot Prime Minister. The Megillah records Haman's leaving the royal repast in high spirits, only to be dashed by a cameo appearance of Mordechai the Jew. He then, self-therapeutically, convenes his wicked wife and friends, and speaks of his glorious wealth, 'many' sons' political success -- all of which are marred by Mordechai's very existence. Together they plot a final solution. And although there's much commentary on this in the corpus of rabbinic writings, the Talmud is mostly silent about this Episode, save for a brief discussion just how much is 'many.' The bulk of this class will focus on the sudden onset of Royal Insomnia that activates imaginary nightmares ends up turning everything totally Upside Down. Our Sages see this earthly King’s sleep disturbance as symbolic of a Heavenly or spiritually phenomenon, leading into a Royal Wokeness of great consequence! We encounter the world’s first Talking Book, as an ancient scroll's subtext is carefully scanned for possible allusions to unspoken, yet pronounced miraculous stimulation of monarchical machination and memories about unpaid Debts of Gratitude! As we learn of a perfidious attempt to erase history, and the angelic intervention that reverses it, our Gemara may also be conveying profound insight about the limits of dark energy engendered by sinful behavior. Finally, we encounter what is likely the true (and ancient) origin of the phrase first expressed in the Latin "Amicus meus, inimicus inimici mei" (my friend, the enemy of my enemy). For although this only become common Europe early 18th Century, student of the Talmud have been using it since antiquity -- proving once again that all wisdom is already found in the Torah! This Episode is 43rd in a continuing study-series of Masechet Megillah, Chapter One. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15b Miraculously, the erratic King is so enchanted (and shockingly not upset)by the Queen’s brazen intrusion he offers “Half the Kingdom!” Instead of Seizing the Moment, she invites him to dinner with the architect of her nation’s genocide. What in heaven was she thinking?! Here's some background: After fasting and praying for 3 days, the Queen gambles on her life end, and illegally enters the King's Royal Throne room. While its clear that this might have ended at the Executioners Guillotines, it goes fantastically well for her! Miraculously, the erratic King is so enchanted (and shockingly not infuriated!) by the Queen’s brazen intrusion he shockingly offers her “Half the Kingdom!” This Episode examines King Achashvairosh's ridiculously generous offer, before moving onto Queen Esther's surprisingly tepid response. Did he really mean it when he offered her "Half-the-Kingdom," and did she actually respond with nothing more than a benign dinner invitation? The bulk of this class will focus on our biblical 's heroine's secret intentions in welcoming the arch-villain Haman into her exclusive royal sanctum for a private rendezvous with nobody but her and the King. On the surface it certainly seems strange that instead of 'seizing the moment,' and pleading her cause -- the Queen chooses to invite the King to join her together with her mortal enemy, the architect of her nation’s genocide. Clearly, there must be so much more to the story, and of course, there is! Here we will discover Esther's sheer genius and the absolute brilliance of her storied strategy. You'll be amazed to learn to what she was thinking, and as such, find newfound respect, admiration, and appreciation for the historic Queen Esther. In addition this Gemara conveys an exceedingly profound and powerful lesson about the nuanced interplay between Bitachon (faithful trust in Hashem) and Hishtadlut (the sincere efforts we are expected to make)! This Episode is the 42nd in a continuing study-series of Mseachet Megilla, Chapter One.

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15b How Mordechai’s “Paul Revere Moment” Unfolded and the fallout it engendered.

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Four Chapter 8, Part 5 How a Province-wide Wake Up was Municipally Mirrored in the Persian Patchwork Empire and Lead to Mass Conversion!!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Three Chapter 8, Part 4 Euphemistically Illuminated. Why Embodying Jewish Distinction is best achieved with Meaningful Metaphors of “Light, Happiness, Joy and Glory”!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-Two Chapter 8, Part 3 Law and Order Proclaimed. The Making of a Jewish Prime Minister. How a Switch of Style triggered Citywide Celebrations!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty-One Chapter 8, Part 3 Express Letters of Transformation. Delivered by Royal Courier: On Horseback, Speeding Camels and/or Swift Stallions and Mules!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Forty Chapter 8, Part 2 A New Deal leads to Lessons in Letter Writing. Mobilizing the Persian Pony Express. Saving Lives, Not Money!

Megillat Esther- The Megillah in Depth, Part Thirty Nine ’ Chapter 8, Part 1 Estate Appropriation. Rabbi Receives Royal Ring, and Palace Grounds. Queen Induces New National Legislation!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Thirty Eight Chapter 7, Part 3 Who actually sent Haman to the Gallows? Was it a secret Jew, Foe turned Friend or an Angel from Heaven. The entire climax is reframed as shocking secrets are revealed!

Megillat Esther - The Megillah in Depth, Part Thirty Seven Chapter 7, Part 2 The Epic Moment the Genocidal Mastermind is Identified. The Royal Rage Aftermath, and the Pushy Angels who Saved the Day.

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15b The Epic Error that engendered Heavenly abandonment and reconciliation. Queen Esther’s Zero Hour Miraculous Royal Encounter!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15b A Futuristic Visionary Sermon from Antiquity; Crowning by G-d. Divine Decisions and Justice. Expounding the Megillah; Differing Views of Queen’s Esther's Royal Error that engendered Heavenly abandonment and reconciliation!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page - 15a-b & A potpourri of Talmudic Teachings including insight into topics like: Blessings. Curses. Redemption. Eternity and even a Slave Trade Secrets!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page 14b - 15a Conclusion of the mini-series on Feminine Prophecy and with Lasting Legacies of Great Biblical Women!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page 14b

Talmud Tisch -Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page 14a-b Mini-series on Feminine Prophecy and with Lasting Legacies of Great Biblical Women!

Talmud Tisch - Intermediate Talmud Masechet Megillah Daf/Page 14a ! Mini-series on Feminine Prophecy and with Lasting Legacies of Great Biblical Women!

Megillat Esther The Megillah in Depth, Part Thirty Six Esther’s Royal Power Play! Chapter 7, Part 1