PARSHA & PROSE: THE TORAH PORTION, KI TISA THROUGH THE LENSE OF MEGILLAT ESTHER (Audio)

The Torah portion Ki Tisa, which tells the story of the golden calf and the aftermath of the Israelites’ disobedience, can be explored through the lens of the Megillat Esther, highlighting themes of repentance, leadership, divine intervention but more so, how the Jewish people are when God and leadership is invisible. In Ki Tisa, after the Israelites fall into idolatry, Moses' leadership is put to the test. His passionate plea for the people’s forgiveness, and his willingness to risk his own life for their redemption, mirrors Esther’s selfless courage in saving the Jewish people in Persia. Both Moses and Esther step into roles of immense responsibility, facing dire consequences, but also demonstrating the power of prayer, action, and the ability to change the course of history. In both stories, divine intervention is subtly at work, as God listens to Moses' entreaties and ultimately saves the people, just as He works behind the scenes in the Megillah to bring about Esther's success. The connection between the two narratives underscores the enduring relevance of leadership, faith, and the ability to seek forgiveness and redemption.