Lesson לֶקַח

You can יְכוֹלִים

Learn לִלְמֹד

The story הַסִּפּוּר

Forever לְעוֹלָם

You will build תִּבְנֶה

Something מַשֶּׁהוּ

Wants רוֹצֶה

To use לְהִשְׁתַּמֵּשׁ

Yourself בְּעַצְמְךָ

Solution:

Teacher: What lesson can we learn from Haman’s story?

Student: Never build something you wouldn’t want to use yourself.

Teacher insight:

The story of Haman, a central figure in the Purim narrative, offers profound insights into the consequences of malicious intent and the ethical imperative of treating others as we wish to be treated. Haman, a high-ranking official in ancient Persia, harbored deep animosity towards Mordechai, a Jewish man who refused to bow to him. In his quest for revenge, Haman orchestrated a plot to annihilate the Jewish people, even constructing gallows intended for Mordecai’s execution. However, his scheme backfired, leading to his own demise on the very gallows he had built. This narrative underscores the

timeless principle: “Never build something you wouldn’t want to use yourself.”

This lesson is especially relevant in a school environment, where students are not only learning new subjects but also learning how to treat one another. Whether in friendships, group projects or language classes, the way we speak and act toward others has a lasting impact. Just like Haman’s actions came back to him, the words we use and the effort we invest in supporting others often return to us.

Learning a new language can be both exciting and challenging. It requires patience, practice and the courage to make mistakes. For many students, expressing themselves in a new language can make them feel vulnerable. This is why it is so important to create a supportive environment where everyone feels safe and encouraged to participate. Instead of criticizing others’ mistakes, we can choose to offer kind words, help one another, and celebrate each other’s progress.

The story of Purim teaches us that the atmosphere we create ultimately shapes our own experience. When we build others up, we build a stronger, more positive community for ourselves. Just as Haman’s actions came full circle, so too do our words and deeds.

By choosing our words carefully and supporting one another, we not only become better language learners but also better people.

Maya Yehezkel is a Hebrew teacher at Yeshivat Noam Middle School. For private tutoring, all levels, email [email protected].