Listen as Batya breaks down the beauty of Parashat Yitro in Exodus 18:1-20:23. This section of the Torah speaks volumes about God’s love for his people, the miracle of Exodus, and how we came to receive the ten commandments. As a student of the Torah and a follower of Yeshua, Batya’s perspective provides new insight into our promises with God, and how to navigate hard decisions.

Parashat Yitro - Bible Teaching with Batya Segal

Are you willing to bless Israel, make a difference in the lives of people, and partner with God's plan for restoration of the land of Israel?

This section of the Torah speaks volumes about God’s love for his people, the miracle of Exodus, and how we came to receive the ten commandments. 

Where Did We Get the Ten Commandments? | Blog | Vision for Israel

Parashat Yitro: Where Did We Get the Ten Commandments? 

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place... Who knows whether you have attained royal status for such a time as this?” 

As the holiday of Purim approaches, all of us can relate to how the Jewish people must have felt during the time of Esther in the Bible. Haman and many others had planned to destroy the Jewish people, and this is exactly what Hamas, Hezbollah, and all the enemies of Israel want to do to the nation of Israel. And yet in the book of Esther, God had a sovereign plan to deliver His people and make a way for the Jewish people to fight and defeat our enemies. Today, all of us living in Israel and those praying around the world, are pressing into the Lord to see Him do it again. We pray, “Lord, come fight for your people, protect and shield them from the enemy, and deliver Israel and the Jewish people again!”

As the Jewish people celebrate Purim this month, on the 14th of Adar, we remember the story of God delivering the Jewish people from imminent destruction in the ancient Persian Empire. This holiday is named after the word "pur" (lots), for the lots cast by Haman who was the prime minister under King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I), to determine the day he would exterminate the Jews. This story, encapsulated in Megillat Esther (Book of Esther), showcases themes of courage, faith, and God’s divine orchestration.

The Story of Purim: Courage and Providence

The Purim narrative highlights Esther, a Jewish girl who becomes queen and conceals her Jewish identity. Her cousin Mordecai refuses to bow down to Haman, which incites Haman's wrath. Haman persuades the king to sign an edict to annihilate the Jews. The story unfolds as Mordecai discovers a plot against the king. Mordechai encourages Queen Esther to rise up to defend the Jewish people by telling her that she has come to her royal position for such a time as this. Esther bravely calls a fast for 3 days and risks her life to approach the king to expose the plot against the Jewish people. She reveals her Jewish identity, and God turns the story around. The story culminates with the king ordering Haman's execution, Mordecai being elevated by the king, and a new edict written, allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. In the end, God gave the Jewish people victory over their enemies, and they celebrated with great feasting and joy! 

“On the 13th day of the 12th month, the month of Adar, the edict commanded by the king was to be carried out. On this day the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, but now the tables were turned and the Jews got the upper hand over those who hated them. The Jews assembled in their cities in all the provinces of King Xerxes to attack those determined to destroy them. No one could stand against them, because the people of all the other nationalities were afraid of them.” - Esther 9:1-2

Traditions of Purim: Joy, Memory, and Generosity

Purim traditions are designed to celebrate God’s miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people and to instill the story's lessons throughout generations. Some of these traditions include:

Megillah Reading: During the public recitation of the Book of Esther in synagogues, it is customary to drown out Haman's name every time he is mentioned with noise made by groggers or boos. This symbolized the eradication of evil.

Mishlo’ach Manot: Sending gifts of food to friends and Matanot La'Evyonim (giving gifts to the poor) emphasizes the importance of community and charity during this holiday. One of the most iconic items that is included in the Mishlo'ach Manot is Hamantaschen, a triangular cookie that is typically filled with a sweet filling such as dates or poppy seeds. 

Purim Spiel: Theatrical presentations retell the Purim story, and often use humor and satire.

Dressing up in costumes and masks: The costumes symbolize the hidden miracles of the Purim story and Esther's concealed Jewish identity.

Tzedakah: The Essence of Purim and Vision for Israel's Work

“to have them celebrate annually the 14th and 15th days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.” - Esther 9:21-22

Tzedaka, the act of giving to the poor and the less fortunate, is a Purim cornerstone. Vision for Israel extends this biblical principle throughout the year, providing essential aid to those in need across Israel. In light of this Purim, we invite you to celebrate this holiday by giving gifts to the poor in Israel. To learn more about our work visit our projects page.

Antisemitism Today: The Shadow of Haman in Modern Times

The eerie resemblance between Haman and Hamas is not lost on contemporary observers. Just as Haman cast lots to annihilate the Jewish people, Hamas launched an attack against Israel on October 7th, the day of Simchat Torah, seeking our destruction. 

But it didn’t end there. Following the attack and the subsequent war in Gaza, we are seeing a rise in antisemitism around the world today. This is a grave concern and we must learn from history.

This parallel highlights the enduring struggle against antisemitism and the importance of unity, resilience, and vigilance in safeguarding Jewish lives and heritage against modern threats. Let us raise our voices against antisemitism and stand together with our Jewish brothers and sisters.

God’s message through the Purim story is that when His people stand in courage and trust in Him, He will deliver His people from the hands of their enemies. This holiday also serves as a call to action in today's world, reminding us of the importance of standing against oppression, supporting one another, and fostering a community bound by generosity and love. God's message through the book of Esther remains ever-relevant, and now more than ever, for Israel as we find ourselves still at war.

Today, with many enemies surrounding Israel on all sides, we look to the Lord who is our deliverer and shield. He will protect and fight for His people. We expect to see Him do miracles and He will receive all the glory and honor for faithfully protecting His people and nation. 



Learn more about this joyful holiday in these blogs:
Purim—The Victory of God’s People

How an Orphan Turned Queen Saved a Nation

Explore the legacy of Purim, from its ancient origins and traditions to modern significance, The Jewish people’s resilience, and the fight against antisemitism. 

Purim: A Celebration of Deliverance | Blog | Vision for Israel

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!" - Psalm 100:4

As we approach Thanksgiving, a cherished season of gratitude in the United States, we invite you to explore the deeper meaning of the Hebrew word for “thank you” – Todah. This simple yet profound word echoes throughout the Bible and holds layers of significance that invite us to reflect, confess, and express gratitude from our hearts. While today, todah is part of everyday Hebrew, rooted in the biblical texts, it has a profound dual meaning – thankfulness and confession – that brings us closer to God’s loving presence in both celebration and humility.



Todah in Scripture: More than a Word of Thanks

The Hebrew todah first appears in the Bible in Genesis 29:35. When Leah names her son Judah (Yehudah), she says, “This time I will praise [in Hebrew: odeh, I will thank] the Lord.” She expresses gratitude purely toward God, unburdened by her challenges. In its earliest form, todah was used only in relation to God and His blessings, demonstrating how gratitude flows from the acknowledgment of His hand in our lives.

Even more, in Hebrew, the word odeh which is derived from the word todah, and “confession” are closely connected. Odeh is not only a way to say “thank you” but also a confession of sin. We see this in Joshua 7:19 when Joshua calls Achan to “give thanks to God” and confess. This call to thanksgiving is a call to stand humbly before God and admit the truth in His presence.


Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, and honor [in Hebrew: thanks] him. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.” - Joshua 7:19

The Thanksgiving Offering: A Gift of Praise and Acknowledgment

The ancient thanksgiving offering, or zevach todah, was a significant practice in the Temple. As described in Leviticus 7:12-15, it was more than an act of charity or duty; it was a genuine outpouring of thanks. The worshippers who brought these offerings expressed appreciation for God’s provision, acknowledging that every good thing in their lives came from Him. This heartfelt acknowledgment in todah reflects a truth that rings just as powerful today.

Rashi, a prominent biblical commentator, shares insight from Psalm 50:14: “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.” Here, the sacrifice of thanksgiving was an acknowledgment of sins alongside a thank offering, a blend of humility, and honor to God.



Todah in the New Testament: Jesus’ Thanksgiving at the Last Supper

We see the connection to todah continue in the New Testament, where Jesus gives thanks to the Father. Before breaking bread at the Last Supper, He pauses to express gratitude for the provision of God. In Matthew 26:26-27, “Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.’” Jesus’ thanksgiving points to the fulfillment of the original sacrificial system in His own offering, ultimately reconnecting us with God’s forgiveness, love, and grace.



Today, as we give thanks to the Lord, todah reminds us of the power of humility, gratitude, and truth in our lives. It’s a beautiful word that bridges generations, still commonly used in Israeli life and language today. When you say todah in your prayers, you can feel connected to the same gratitude that inspired worshipers and prophets thousands of years ago.

We are deeply grateful for you, our supporters, as you join us in these acts of todah. Because of you, we are able to continue sharing God’s blessings in the Land of Israel. Thank you for your faithful partnership as we work to provide healing and hope.

Let us give thanks together, saying with the psalmist:

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” - Psalm 107:1

Discover the biblical roots of “todah” – thankfulness and confession – and join us as we give thanks to God for His enduring goodness this season.

The Biblical Heart of Thanksgiving | Vision for Israel

Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”


Tisha B'Av is a sorrowful day for the Jewish people. In Israel, many will fast, pray, and visit the Western Wall to memorialize and mourn these tragedies. This is a day to acknowledge the great need that humanity has for redemption and a Savior. Today, we thank God that he has come and offers all salvation and redemption through his Son, Yeshua.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." — Revelation 21:4

Tishah B'Av (תִּשְׁעָה בְּאָב, the "ninth [day] of [the month of] Av") is an annual fast day of mourning that recalls the many tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people over the centuries, some of which have occurred on the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av. In particular, the following tragedies are all said to have occurred on this very day:

The LORD decreed that the original generation rescued from Egypt would die out in the desert and be deprived of entering the Promised Land because of the Sin of the Spies (Num. 13-14)

The destruction of the First Temple (Babylonians, 586 B.C.)

The destruction of the Second Temple (Romans, 70 A.D.)

In 135 A.D. the Jews rebelled against Roman rule under the false messiah Simon bar Kochba and were destroyed by Hadrian in the battle at Betar.

The Gemara relates that Turnus Rufus, a Roman officer, plowed the area of the Temple under. Rambam (Maimonides) added that all the homes in Jerusalem were likewise plowed under at this time.

The expulsion of the Jews from England in 1290

The expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492

On the Jewish calendar, 21 days (running from the 17th of Tammuz through the 9th of Av) are set apart to commemorate the three weeks of tragedy that immediately preceded the destruction of the Holy Temple and the exile of the Jewish people from the Promised Land. 

 In Jewish tradition, these are called yemei bein ha-metzarim, "the days between the straights," a phrase taken directly from the mournful Book of Lamentations: "Judah has gone into exile ... her pursuers have all overtaken her in the midst of her distresses" (בֵּין הַמְּצָרִים).

During the final nine days of the Three Weeks of Sorrow—beginning with Rosh Chodesh Av (i.e., Av 1) and ending on Tishah B'Av (i.e., Av 9)—observant Jews will begin emotionally preparing for the fast of Av. Typically marriages are not held during this time, and many Jews deliberately refrain from ostensibly pleasurable activities, such as listening to music, dancing, taking vacations, and sometimes even shaving. In fact, most Orthodox Jews will refrain from any activity that might require the recitation of the Shehecheyanu blessing.

Tishah B'Av is the low point of three weeks of mourning, starting with the fast of the 17th of Tammuz (undertaken to recall the first breach in the walls of Jerusalem by the Babylonians before the First Temple was destroyed). During these three weeks, weddings and parties are forbidden according to Jewish law. It is a time for solemn reflection and mourning for Israel.

 On this 25-hour fast day (sundown to sundown), you cannot bathe, eat, drink, laugh, or adorn yourself. As a mourner you enter the synagogue and take off your shoes; you sit on low stools or the floor. No greetings are exchanged. Services at the synagogue include the reciting of the acrostic portions of Lamentations and the singing of dirges called kinnot (קִינוֹת).

 On the eve of the fast, it is customary to eat a boiled egg sprinkled with ashes in silence.

On the Jewish calendar, Tishah B'Av is "sandwiched" between the two times Moses received the tablets of the covenant, first during Shavuot and later, after a period of repentance, during Yom Kippur. This means that just two months after celebrating the Sinai revelation, we mourn for the destruction of the Temple and the beginning of our long exile; and two months later still, we celebrate national atonement and the restoration of the covenant during Yom Kippur.

 All this is prophetic, of course, since Shavuot recalls the ascension of our Lord Yeshua and the giving of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit); Tishah B'Av foretells of Israel's long exile and the "age of grace" extended to the Gentiles, and Yom Kippur foretells the coming atonement of the Jewish people at the end of the age when Israel accepts Yeshua as their great High Priest of the New Covenant (Jer. 30:24).

Although the fast ends at nightfall, the First Temple is said to have continued burning throughout the night and for most of the following day, the tenth of Av. It is therefore customary to maintain all restrictions of the nine days through midday of the following day.

Tisha B'Av is a sorrowful day for the Jewish people. In Israel, many will fast, pray, and visit the Western Wall to remember and mourn these tragedies.

Tisha B’Av: Remembering the Loss of Zion | Blog | Vision for Israel

Tisha B’Av: Remembering the Loss of Zion

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Parashat Yitro: Where Did We Get the Ten Commandments?

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

The Miracle of Exodus

Are you willing to bless Israel, make a difference in the lives of people, and partner with God's plan for restoration of the land of Israel?

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