New short videos on Megillas Esther

Michoel Gros on March 14, 2022

Derech B’Yam HaTalmud has produced the following two short new videos to explore deeper messages of the Megillah:

Was Esther Really Green?

In this video, we investigate the surprising statement of the Gemara says that Esther was Yerarokes, which is usually translated as green. Several key questions are explored, including:

• What is the meaning of the term Yerarokes?
• How did Esther gain this color?
• Did it enhance or detract from her natural beauty?

The 360-Turnaround of Haman’s Wealth

The Midrash says that Haman was the two richest men who ever lived, and he used his riches to bribe his way to power. From where did he get his money, and what became of it in the end? (The answer has Haman rolling in his grave!)

Chovos HaLevavos explains why people desire wealth, and what becomes of it. His words give extra insight into the story of Haman’s money.

Both videos are available for download.

Free mini e-book: Derech B’Yam on Megillah 13a

Michoel Gros on December 22, 2021

As the Daf Yomi makes its way through the first half of Mesechtas Megillah, it is learning how the Gemara understands many of the key verses in the beginning of Megillas Esther. Daf 13a analyzes important verses in the Megillah describing the interaction between Mordechai and Esther, Esther’s color and how she kept Kosher in the palace.

Derech B’Yam HaTalmud on the Daf elucidates many of the topics on Daf 13a to provide more insight into them. It discusses the statement that Esther was ירקרוקת. This term is often translated as “Green” but there is a range of opinions regarding this in the commentators. It is necessary to define the color and the impact that it had on Esther.

Did Esther’s pigment enhance or detract from her natural beauty?

The Gemara on 13a also presents a debate regarding which food(s) Esther ate while living in the palace, including one surprising statement that she ate bacon. This statement needs much clarity, which the commentators provide.

The mini e-book on Megillah 13a is available for free download on our E-books page.

Derech B’Yam HaTalmud offers a live daily Gemara B’Iyun shiur in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Eretz Yisrael, as well as written and electronic materials for independent learning and teaching.