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