This is past week has been both historic and nerve wracking. Israel on behalf of the world started to take down the big bully that everyone else was so scared of. In a stunning quick few days, with the help of Hashem the success of this mission, “Rising lion” is clear to all.

This brings a deep sense of pride and gratitude as the nation unites while seeing the miracles taking place right before our eyes…

On the other hand, it was a week that was really challenging as well. The daily and nightly missiles that sent Israel into the shelter rooms, and the loss of life, destroying buildings and infrastructure.

Yet it wasn’t hard to find the deep faith and positivity. In fact, this has now become so natural to the Jewish soul and Jewish experience. The miracles and wondrous moments have been pointed out by our many friends and family in Israel.

Today (Thursday) marks a very special day in Jewish history. A day that is not so well known but has a connection to the current events. The 23rd of Sivan marks a significant moment in the times of Purim in the year 357 BCE.

Although Haman was hanged, his evil decree to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, from young to old, infants and women, in one day, remained in force.

Queen Esther pleaded with King Achashverosh to annul the decree, but Achashverosh insisted that “a decree which was written with the king’s name, and sealed with the king’s seal, cannot be returned.” Instead, he suggested to Esther and Mordechai to “inscribe, regarding the Jews, as you please, and seal it with the king’s seal.”

On the 23rd of Sivan, Mordechai drafted a royal decree giving the Jews the license to defend themselves against those who rise up against them.

It’s fascinating that this all happened in ancient Persia, modern day Iran. This day saw the fall of an evil tyrant who sought to annihilate the Jewish people, Heaven forbid.

It’s a day to be grateful, and to thank Hashem for the miracles of the past and present.

Just like in those days the Jewish people saw G-ds salvation, and came out victorious, may we also continue to see the miracles and victory over evil.