Assimilation Is Halted

A beautiful and enlightening series of classes on the book of Ezra. In regards to the story of Reb Zusha you shared at the beginning of the shiur, which you tied to the story of ezra: Reb Zusha wasnt just faking it. Reb Zusha truly saw in himself this blemish that that person had, based on the Baal Shem Tovs teaching that every blemish you see in others is actually found in your self in some way. Therefore the person felt that Reb Zusha was actually experiencing regret for his own sins and not faking it and felt confortable to ask them how to do teshuva.

In addition to that I wanted to ask a question that really ties to the previous chapters: Was Darius not cognizant that he was Jewish that he had the incentive to build the Temple in order so that they pray for his and his families wellbeing? Why doesnt it seem that Darius was Jewish judging by some of this things he says and does? Reply

Thank you, Rabbi, for this very informative series of classes. My knowledge of our history has grown! The background which you have given us has enhanced our understanding. I look forward to you next series. Reply