We know from both Jewish and secular sources, that 2,500 years ago the Babylonians led by Nevuchadnezar, besieged Jerusalem on this day. Two years later the Temple was destroyed. But what events led to this moment? And why was the path of the prophet Yirmiyahu's life so dangerous?  

As importantly how do we, in our days, feel a connection to the message and the narrative?

10th Teves is also designated as a day of mourning, for all those who do not know the date or the fate of their family's passing during the Holocaust, and this episode will feature the unusual story of a young child in the partisans. 

Timestamps

0:00:00 Opening and podcast intro; dedication to Nehemiah and host’s father

0:01:06 Overview of episode topics, Hanukkah feedback, and menorah discussion

0:03:18 Context of Asara B’Tevet, Holocaust link, and anecdote about Kaddish in old-age home

0:04:20 –0:10:04 Historical exposition: Jeremiah’s prophecies, political pressures, scroll burned, imprisonments

0:10:04 –0:19:37 Continued account: attempted murder, rescues, false prophets (Hananiah, Uriah) and descent to siege

0:19:37 –0:21:25 Summary of decline leading to exile and significance of the 10th of Tevet fast

0:21:25 –0:28:46 Modern parallels: genteel/diplomatic antisemitism, political short-termism, and examples

0:28:46 –0:34:31 Reflection on providence, Hashem’s hand, emunah vs. bitachon, and cultivating trust

0:34:31 –0:40:15 Practical guidance: quiet contemplation, Hanukkah lessons, and spiritual responses

0:40:15 –0:46:37 Holocaust case study begins: Matei Jakel’s early life, attack, deportation, and escape from train

0:46:37 –0:52:16 Partisan life, postwar displacement, meeting youth emissaries, aliyah to Israel, rebuilding life

0:52:16 Closing reflections, key takeaways on resilience and faith, listener email (podcasts@jle.org.uk) and two-week break