“Whatever is happening here is the source of tremendous evil.” Rav Yerucham shuddered

R

av Yerucham had no choice but to comply. He returned home with two burly soldiers who supported the chest between them. The soldiers marched into his home with grim expressions and would not leave until they saw Rav Yerucham replace his table with the chest and spread a tablecloth across it.

“What, uh… is this exactly, by the way?” Rav Yerucham swallowed. “I know the emperor said it contained treasures that he wanted to hide, but I would like to know exactly what I’m storing inside my home.”

“None of your business.” The soldier flexed his muscles and sneered. “It doesn’t open anyhow, so don’t even try checking what’s inside. Just do what you’re told, and use it as your table until after the holiday.”

The soldiers left the house, slamming the door behind them.

In truth, no one really had time to think too much about the chest and the strange request from the emperor. Pesach was coming! There was a lot of work to be done, and everyone in the home was delegated a different task to prepare for the holy Yom Tov.

The first night of Pesach arrived. Rav Yerucham entered his dining room after returning from shul and beamed at his family seated around the beautifully set Seder table.

The wine was poured from sparkling glasses into large kosos, and a sense of excitement and anticipation filled the very air.