Mordechai and Esther were involved in a complex series of relationships that were personal, political, and religious. They looked back on the Purim story and rewrote the Book of Esther. They insisted that people committed to spiritual growth constantly review their actions and learn from their mistakes. Their ability to review and change was the most significant step toward independence.

King David lived through his challenges with a vision of one day standing before the nation and raising the “Cup of Salvation,” acknowledging God’s help and guidance through every stage of his life. He committed himself to recognize how each event, no matter how painful, was one step toward his ultimate vision of being God’s servant in its highest sense.

We sing this paragraph of the Hallel with the same vision of our ultimate success as God’s servants: We too, will lift the “Cup of Salvations” in an acknowledgement of God’s guidance and help in becoming independent.

“What can I respond to God

for all the good He has given to make me independent?

I will lift up the cup of salvation

and I will call out in God’s Name.

I will fulfill my promises to God in front of all His nation.

Death to His pious ones is precious in God’s eyes.

Please God, allow me to be Your servant.

I am Your worker, the son of Your maidservant,

You unlocked my chains.

I will bring an offering of thanks to You,

and I will call out in the Name of God.

I will fulfill my promises to God in front of all His nation.

In the courtyards of God’s House,

in the center of Jerusalem.

Hallelukah!”