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Why did Haman—an Amalekite with wealth and power—need provocation from Mordechai to destroy the Jews? The Jews had already embraced assimilation by enjoying Achashverosh's party celebrating their demise. Mordechai's strategy was to awaken the pintele Yid through unity: "k'nos kol ha'Yehudim" means not just gathering, but creating genuine connection—the essence of every Purim (פורים) mitzvah (מצוה).
Rabbi Zweig explores a profound series of questions about the Purim (פורים) story and its mitzvos. He begins by examining the unique law of tzedakah on Purim: "kol ha'poshet yad nosnim lo"—anyone who extends his hand must be given money, without the usual verification of need. Why does Purim differ from the rest of the year? Additionally, why does Purim feature a mitzvah (מצוה) of seudah (feasting) while Chanukah (חנוכה) does not? The shiur proceeds to analyze the dialogue between Mordechai and Esther. When Esther reasonably argues that entering the king unbidden could result in death, and that she hasn't been called in thirty days, Mordechai responds with seemingly harsh language, cursing her and her father's family. Yet this response somehow convinces her to act. What changed her mind?
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Megillas Esther
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