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Thursday, March 13, 2025 | 13 Adar, 5785

The Fast Before the Victory

As the sun sets tonight, we step into Purim—a day of celebration, reversal, and resilience. But today, on the Fast of Esther, we recall the courage of a queen, the faith of a people, and the battles fought throughout history to ensure Jewish survival.

On this day in 356 BCE, Jews across the Persian Empire rose up against their enemies, defending themselves from an unrescinded decree of destruction. On this day in 135 BCE, the Maccabees triumphed over the Syrian General Nicanor, securing another chapter of Jewish sovereignty. And on this day in 1986, we lost one of the greatest halachic authorities of the modern era, Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, whose wisdom continues to shape Jewish life today.

Yet, history does not rest in the past. The battles facing Am Yisrael today—both physical and ideological—continue to shape our present. A new hostage deal is on the table, offering a potential 50-day ceasefire, while tensions flare along Israel’s borders. In the West, antisemitism is rising—from academic halls to city streets—reminding us that the Purim story is not a relic, but a cycle we must continue to break.

As we fast today, we prepare not only for tomorrow’s joy but for the strength needed to secure the future. The Megillah reminds us:

“La’Yehudim hayta ora v’simcha”—the Jews had light and joy.

May we, too, find light in the days ahead.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

Daily Torah Study

Thursday, March 13, 2025 | 13 Adar, 5785

May our prayers embrace all our hostages still held in Gaza, for Israel, and for all of Am Yisrael—may they be returned in safety and peace.

Chumash – Parshat Ki Tisa, 5th Portion (Shemot / Exodus 34:1-34:9)
Psalms – Chapters 69-71
Tanya – Likutei Amarim, end of Chapter 33
Rambam – 3 Chapters, 1 Chapter, Sefer Hamitzvot
Hayom Yom – Today’s Hayom Yom

A Purim Tribute: Honoring the Bibas Boys in Batman Capes

For over a year, a photo of Ariel Bibas, his baby brother Kfir, and their parents in matching Batman pajamas became a symbol of hope as the world waited for their return. Now, in the first Purim since their tragic deaths, Jewish children across Israel and beyond are honoring their memory—dressing up as Batman and donning orange capes in tribute to the brothers and their mother, Shiri Bibas.

From schoolchildren in Tel Aviv to costume shops in Jerusalem offering special Bibas-themed Batman masks, the gesture has spread globally. Even families in the United States are embracing the tribute, with parents assembling Batman-themed Mishloach Manot for Purim.

The Bibas family, deeply moved by the widespread support, shared:

Read more about this heartfelt tribute: Times of Israel

New Ceasefire Proposal Could See Hostages Released

A 50-day ceasefire proposal is under discussion following U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Qatar. Under the plan, Hamas would release five living hostages and the bodies of nine deceased hostages, while Israel would agree to halt military operations until April 20.

Talks remain ongoing, with negotiating teams still in Qatar—a sign of progress, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Witkoff, described as "deeply committed" to securing a hostage release, is reportedly pushing for a comprehensive deal rather than a partial agreement.

Meanwhile, U.S. envoy Adam Boehler has reportedly been removed from his negotiating position regarding Hamas, shifting the dynamic of American involvement.

Read the full article: Jerusalem Post

Israel Rejects UN Report as ‘Blood Libel’

Israel has condemned a United Nations report accusing it of committing “genocidal acts” in Gaza, calling the claims a modern-day blood libel. The report alleges Israeli forces targeted women’s healthcare facilities and used sexual violence as a war strategy—charges Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Foreign Ministry, have denounced as false, antisemitic, and politically motivated.

Read more: Times of Israel

Rubio Defends Arrest of Columbia Anti-Israel Activist

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed concerns that the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and anti-Israel activist, was an attack on free speech, stating that Khalil had no right to remain in the U.S.

Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident, was detained by immigration authorities over alleged ties to Hamas-aligned activities. A federal judge has temporarily blocked his deportation, with a hearing set for this week.

Read more: Times of Israel

IDF Strikes Islamic Jihad Headquarters in Damascus

Israeli fighter jets targeted a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) stronghold in Damascus on Thursday, striking what the IDF described as a nerve center for planning terror attacks. The airstrike hit a residential building in the Dummar suburb, which a PIJ member claimed was the home of Ziad Nakhaleh, the terror group’s leader—though he was not present at the time.

Read more: Times of Israel

Freed Hamas Hostage Doron Katz-Asher Gives Birth to a Daughter

Doron Katz-Asher, who was freed from Hamas captivity along with her two daughters after 49 days in Gaza, has given birth to a baby girl. The birth comes less than a year after her release, following the tragic loss of her mother and brother in the October 7 attacks.

Despite enduring extreme conditions in captivity, Katz-Asher described the pregnancy as a miracle of resilience—a symbol of survival and hope after immense trauma.

Read more: Jerusalem Post

State Archives Digitizes British Mandate-Era Newspaper

The Israel State Archives has digitally published the Palestine Gazette, the official newspaper of the British Mandate from 1920 to 1948. The Gazette, which contained government regulations, municipal laws, and public announcements, was originally printed in English, Hebrew, and Arabic.

The digitization effort, which has been ongoing for a decade, marks a major milestone, with 250 million historical documents now available online. The Gazette’s newly accessible archives offer valuable legal, historical, and genealogical insights into life during the Mandate period.

Read more: Jerusalem Post

Song of the Week: The Purim Song – The Maccabeats

As Purim approaches, this week’s song of the week is The Purim Song by The Maccabeats—a joyful and energetic anthem celebrating the hidden miracles of the holiday.

Set to the tune of P!nk’s “Raise Your Glass”, the song recounts the story of Queen Esther, Haman’s downfall, and the triumph of the Jewish people. With a cappella harmonies and a playful yet meaningful twist, it brings Purim’s message of hidden miracles and resilience to life.

Originally released in 2011, The Purim Song remains a fan-favorite for its infectious energy and uplifting lyrics. As we prepare for Megillah readings, Mishloach Manot, and celebration, this song sets the perfect tone for a joyous and meaningful Purim.

🎧 Listen Here: The Purim Song – The Maccabeats

This Didn’t Start on October 7th

The war against Israel did not begin on October 7, 2023—it is part of a long history of terror. On March 11, 1978, Palestinian terrorists carried out the Coastal Road Massacre, murdering 38 Israeli civilians, including 13 children. Exactly 33 years later, on March 11, 2011, terrorists infiltrated Itamar on Shabbat, slaughtering five members of the Fogel family, including a 3-month-old baby. These attacks, celebrated by Israel’s enemies, are painful reminders that the violence against our people is neither new nor isolated. ה׳ יקום דמם – Never forget. Never forgive.

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Yosef Zinati: A Lineage Unbroken

Yosef Zinati, a Kohen and direct descendant of Jews who never left the land after the destruction of the Second Temple, carries a legacy of resilience. His family survived by hiding in Peki’in or fleeing to northern villages, preserving an unbroken connection to Eretz Yisrael. His story is a testament to the endurance of Jewish heritage in the land. Support the project @mizrahbox.

The Forgotten Massacres of Safed

On August 29, 1929, Arab mobs attacked the Jewish quarter of Safed, murdering and wounding dozens of Jews, burning homes, and destroying businesses—echoing the Hebron Massacre just days before. This was not an isolated event; the Jews of Safed had endured centuries of violence, from the 1517 attacks to the 1834 looting and 1838 Druze revolt. The resilience of Safed’s Jewish community stands as a testament to unbroken presence and survival in the land of Israel. Support the project @mizrahbox.

This Day in Jewish History: 9 Adar

Eighty-five years ago, on 9 Adar, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the sixth Chabad Rebbe, arrived in New York after a miraculous rescue from Nazi-occupied Warsaw. His survival and arrival marked the beginning of Chabad’s global expansion, ensuring the continuity of Torah, Jewish education, and outreach in the face of destruction.

7th of Adar: Moshe Rabbeinu & the Hidden Light

Today marks both the birth and passing of Moshe Rabbeinu, our greatest leader and teacher. The sages connect Moshe with Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, uniting the revealed Torah with the hidden teachings of Kabbalah and the Zohar.

As Purim approaches, we are reminded that HaShem’s name is absent from the Megillah, yet His presence is in every turn of the story—just as Moshe’s name is missing from this week’s parasha, Tetzaveh, yet his influence is everywhere. The hidden always seeks to be revealed.

With war ongoing and hostages still in captivity, we hold onto this truth: Even when the Divine seems hidden, miracles are unfolding.

José Aboulker: The Jewish Resistance Fighter Who Helped Turn the Tide of WWII

On November 7, 1942, José Aboulker, a 22-year-old Jewish medical student, led 400 resistance fighters—mostly Jews—in a daring operation in Algiers, seizing strategic points and neutralizing Vichy forces. His bravery directly enabled the success of the Allied Operation Torch, preventing an Axis victory in North Africa and safeguarding the Jews of the region.

Born on this day, March 5, 1920, Aboulker later became a renowned neurosurgeon and lifelong advocate for justice. His courage reminds us that Jewish resistance shaped history. May his legacy continue to inspire.

The Helsinki Synagogue: A Century of Jewish Life in Finland

Completed in 1906, the Helsinki Synagogue 🕍 remains a proud symbol of Jewish resilience in Finland 🇫🇮. Built in Byzantine Revival style, its distinctive dome is a landmark in the city’s skyline. Today, it continues to serve as both a spiritual home for Finland’s 1,200-strong Jewish community and a center for cultural and educational life, preserving Jewish heritage for generations to come.

Exciting website updates are on the way—stay tuned!

מזון לנשמה

Mazon LaNeshama
Feed the Soul

Recipe of the Week: Buttery Hamantaschen

Purim is here, it’s the perfect time to bake Buttery Hamantaschen—rich, orange-scented cookies that are tender, flavorful, and hold their shape beautifully with any filling. Whether you prefer poppyseed, apricot, chocolate, or caramel apple, this dough makes the perfect Purim treat.

Ingredients (Makes ~35 Hamantaschen)

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• ⅔ cup sugar

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp grated orange zest

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1-5 tsp water (as needed)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

2️⃣ Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, and orange zest until well combined.

3️⃣ Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and salt, then mix on low speed until a crumbly dough forms.

4️⃣ Knead & Chill: Knead the dough gently until smooth. If it's too dry, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until it reaches a soft but non-sticky consistency. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight).

5️⃣ Roll & Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to ¼ inch thick. Use a 3-inch cookie cutter (or glass) to cut circles.

6️⃣ Fill & Shape: Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold three sides to form a triangle, pinching the edges to seal.

7️⃣ Bake: Place hamantaschen on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

8️⃣ Cool & Enjoy: Let them cool on a wire rack, then serve and celebrate Purim with sweet hidden miracles!

🎭 Chag Purim Sameach! 🎭

👉 Full Recipe Here: Tori Avey – Buttery Hamantaschen

As We Fast, We Remember—As We Celebrate, We Endure

On this Fast of Esther, we recall a history where the Jewish people stood on the brink of destruction, only to emerge stronger. As we witness today’s challenges—from war and hostages still held in Gaza to rising antisemitism around the world—our resilience remains unwavering.

Through history and headlines, we continue to shed light on both the struggles and triumphs of Am Yisrael. Thank you for being part of Jewish Original Media—for staying informed, engaged, and connected.

May we see hidden miracles revealed and brighter days ahead.

B’ahava u’b’emunah (With love and faith),
Jewish Original Media