In this shiur, we focus on Purim and Megillat Esther, with a closer look at the backround and content of the first chapter of the Book of Esther. The Persian Jews were apparently living lives of decadence and assimilation, not considering following the lead of their contemporaries who were returning to Zion. Though the Diaspora Jews were faced with extinction by assimilation and then physical destruction, the situation was dramatically reversed. The source of happiness on Purim is hope - hope and triumph after despair.