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Vayikra/Purim 5784: For God or King?

Join Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield this week as he delves deep into the rich theological tapestry of Purim alongside Rafael Polisuk. Together, they explore the intricate messages woven into the fabric of the holiday and the profound challenges encountered by the Jewish people of that era.

Unraveling the layers of history and tradition, they ponder the intriguing question: Did the Jewish people substitute God with the mortal figure of King Achashverosh? Could the opulent court of the King have evolved into a contemporary Mishkan, a sacred space of worship and reverence? As the conversation unfolds, they invite listeners to contemplate the significance of placing God at the forefront of our lives and decision-making processes.

Rafael J. Polisuk

Rabbi Rafael J. Polisuk teaches Talmud, Tanakh and Jewish Thought at Pardes. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Rafael made aliyah and studied at Yeshivat Merkaz HaRav. Rafael co-founded and led the Seed Beit Midrash initiative of Bnei Akiva Israel, helping cultivate young Torah leadership communities throughout the country. He received rabbinic ordination in 2024 through the Yashrut Semikha initiative led by Rabbi Daniel Landes.

Rafael is deeply engaged in social and spiritual activism, with a particular focus on LGBTQ inclusion within the Orthodox community. A believer in rigorous and vibrant Torah learning as the moral and spiritual center of Jewish life, he works to foster greater belonging and tolerance through a Torah-rooted approach.