The Hidden Depths of Purim – Rabbi Dovid Kaplan Unpacks 10 Big Questions

What was the reason behind Haman’s hatred—was
it personal, political, or theological?

Why was Haman so confident that he could wipe
out the Jewish people? Did he see the Jews as politically weak, morally
compromised, or lacking divine protection?

What is the significance of Mordechai refusing
to bow to Haman? Was he correct? And how does this connect to Jewish
resilience?

Why did Mordechai instruct Esther to remain
silent about her Jewish identity initially, and what does this suggest about
Jewish survival strategies in exile?

Why did Esther
invite Haman to her banquets? What psychological or political strategy was she
employing?

Why was it
necessary for the Jews to fight back even after Haman was executed? What does
this say about Jewish self-defense throughout history?

Why is the name of God absent in the Book of
Esther, and what does this teach about divine providence (השגחה פרטית)?

How does the Purim story reflect the Jewish
concept of 'והפוך הוא'
('everything was turned upside down') in both personal and national
experiences?

How does
the concept of Measure for Measure play out in the Book of Esther?

What is
the spiritual or mystical significance behind the Purim drinking custom? How
does it relate to the theme of hidden miracles in the Megillah?