480

It is important to reiterate an important number in Jewish history. In this past week's Haftarah, we read about the dedication of the Beit Hamikdash in Shlomo Hamelech's time. In chapter six verse one of Kings I, it says the following: "And it came to pass at the end of 480 years from the Exodus from Egypt, that the Temple of Shlomo was completed.

The number 480 is little known but connects Jewish history. We know that the first Temple lasted 410 years followed by the 70 year exile as prophesied by Jeremiah. We also know the second Temple lasted 420 years. With a little simple mathematics, we can prove the world is 5777 years old.

The Purim story and the great feast of Achashveirosh, was his celebration that Jeremiah's 70 year prophecy had not come true. He miscalculated and as fate would have it, the son born to him and Esther, ordered the rebuilding of the second Temple.