A gathering of sages in an attic in Lod, and they were discussing martyrdom and when it was mandated. That is, most of the time, saving one’s life takes precedence, except for “the big 3” – idolatry, adultery (and other illicit sexual relations), and murder (because who can say “whose blood is redder”?!). But whether the violation of the mitzvah is to be public or private also makes a difference. As does a time of persecution against Judaism. Plus, and suitable for Rosh Chodesh Adar (thank you, neis nistar) – an intricate discussion of Esther and why she wasn’t culpable for her sexual relationship with Achashverosh, and the usual focus on Abaye’s interpretation of the issues (we look at Rava’s interpretation too).
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