We are approaching the wonderful Yom Tov of Purim, the climax of all the Yamim Tovim, a time when we achieve the epitome of simcha and connection to Hashem.
However, as we know well, the Purim story did not begin there.
Commensurate with the great joy of the ending was the grave threat at the start, as Klal Yisrael found themselves under threat of annihilation, with seemingly no way to escape.
Famously, Mordechai refused to bow down to Haman, in spite of the great danger in doing so. Why did he insist on acting in this way, thus antagonizing Haman further? Could he not have stayed at home and avoided Haman?
Even more strange was Esther Hamalka’s conduct at this time. Though she was doing all she could to help Klal Yisrael in their time of need, she was also giving the impression of collaborating with Haman! After all, she invited him to a special, private party with the king. Moreover, her one request to Achashverosh at this party was to invite him for another party on the following day, including Haman. What was she trying to achieve with this?
