(5777/ 2017)A thought. Every Ratzui (Yom Kippur) needs a Shov (eating Erev Yom Kippur; and every Shuv (Purim) needs a Ratzo (fasting Ta’anis Esther). (5780/ 2020)Taanis Esther Ratzoi Purim Shov (like Yom Kippur in reverse).

Everything you always wanted to know about Taanis Esther. Do we fast because Esther fasted? Not so fast! The answer is a little bit more complicated. This class provides inspiration for the fast and Purim as well. (some thoughts). NOTE: There is an error in this class. I say that there is no source for…

A short thought about the fact that the fast was pushed up (to 11 ADAR) as we can’t fast on Shabbos.

The Ma’amar of Mesiras Nefesh explains how Purim could complete Mattan Torah and Children could accomplish more than spiritual giants. The lesson for us now (even in Russia and certainly) in the west is obvious.

Story of Adar 1 5752, and overview of this very important Ma’amar.

The simcha in Golus vs. in the times of the Beis hamikdash. A discussion based on a Sicha (in Likutei sichos vol. 26), that explains the difference between the Rambam’s Halacha sefer (an ideal sefer) vs. the Shulchan Aruch (- A Galus Sefer).

Amaleik exists even in Geula until we actually enter the promised land.

Amalaik, has four levels: 1) Separating the ‘face’ from the ‘rear’ of Avoda, 2) Coldness, 3) Doubt, 4) Da’as of Klipa. The answer to Amalaik is Zachor, remember from Chochma; against this Amalaik cannot compete.

Class One. Two types of war (that are Mitzvah) 1) to conquer, 2) to destroy. These are the wars of 1) the seven nations, 2) Amalaik. Class Two. The war with Amalaik is to destroy, as they are the essence of evil. The idea that everything must be for Hashem’s honor. How is destroying Amalaik…

‘The road’ from Egypt means our relationship with Hashem. Before we arrive at Mattan Torah the road leads us to confront the opposition, some is raised up- Yisro. Some is destroyed- Amalaik. Though Amalaik is our ‘brother’ and Yisro is only ‘our neighbor’.