“He has forgotten the most enjoyable pastime of his predecessors – tormenting the Jews”

T

he city of Prague was in an uproar. Rumors about evil decrees that the king was planning for the Jewish community spread like wildfire through the streets. The news quickly reached the ears of the rav of Prague at that time, Rabbi Avigdor Kara. Rabbi Avigdor was a very wise and talented rav, well versed in Kabbalah, a composer of piyutim who possessed great musical talent.

Rabbi Avigdor was surprised to learn of the decrees.

“The king is a drunkard,” Rabbi Avigdor said to the messenger who had brought the news. “Ever since he ascended the throne, how has he spent his time?”

“Well, from what we’ve heard, drinking, eating and, uh, sleeping. And then repeating those actions.”

“Right. Day in, and day out. And Baruch Hashem, it’s worked for the Jewish community perfectly. While the kings of old always reserved space in their evil minds to concoct plans against the Jewish people, this king has no room in is heart for anything other than worldly pleasures. He’s so preoccupied with enjoying himself, that’s he has forgotten the most enjoyable pastime of his predecessors — tormenting the Jews.”