Post date: Feb 28, 2021 7:7:0 AM
“Vayasem Hamelech Achashveirosh mas al ha’aretz v’iyei hayam”
King Achashveirosh set a tax on the lands and on the islands of the sea
(10:1)
At the end of the Megillah, Achashveirosh levied a new tax on his entire empire. According to the Me’am Lo’ez, we learn two things from this Pasuk (which don’t necessarily conflict).
First of all, the reason for this new tax was political self preservation. Achashveirosh was concerned that Haman might have had violent extremist followers (shocking!) who might have decided to plan a rebellion as revenge for his having killed Haman. He figured that anyone who was involved in a potential coup would either delay or outright refuse payment of the new tax to the murderer of their hero. The traitors would end up outing themselves through their non-compliance of the new tax, and could then be easily weeded out.
The second thing we learn from this Pasuk is how Achashveirosh was rewarded for his contribution to the salvation of the Jews. There are differing opinions regarding how many countries Achashveirosh ruled at most during any one time. And some opinions hold that when we’re told at the beginning of the Megillah that he ruled over 127 countries, that that was a 50% reduction from what it had been at one time. Regardless of the total number, our Pasuk tells us that Hashem rewarded Achashveirosh by returning to him many of the maritime countries and islands that he had lost control over. He now had more heads that he could tax, and he jumped at the opportunity with the introduction of a new tax.
[The Book of Esther: Yalkut Me’am Lo’ez, p. 198]
Posted 2/28/21
Purim and Shushan Purim have ended, and all we’re left with at this point are the crumbs from the holiday. No, not from the Hamantashen. Today is Shushan Purim Meshulash, for those living within a properly walled city. Those residents are giving Shalach Manos and having their Purim Seudah today because they couldn’t fully celebrate Shushan Purim yesterday on Shabbos. For the rest of us, it’s time to start thinking about Pesach preparations. This year was my 11th year sharing Purim Vorts with you. Hopefully you were able to share some meaningful ideas with friends and family.
Wishing everyone a Chag Kasher v’Sameach, and maybe enjoy just one more Hamantashen before the day is over.
Josh
Posted 2/28/21