1 On that day King Ahasuerus gave to Queen Esther the house of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came before the king, for Esther had told what he was to her.
2 And the king took off his signet ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it to Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman.
3 Then Esther spoke again to the king. She fell at his feet and wept and pleaded with him to avert the evil plan of Haman the Agagite and the plot that he had devised against the Jews.
4 When the king held out the golden scepter to Esther, Esther rose and stood before the king.
5 And she said, “If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his sight, and if the thing seems right before the king, and I am pleasing in his eyes, let an order be written to revoke the letters devised by Haman the Agagite, the son of Hammedatha, which he wrote to destroy the Jews who are in all the provinces of the king.
6 For how can I bear to see the calamity that is coming to my people? Or how can I bear to see the destruction of my kindred?”
7 Then King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, “Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and they have hanged him on the gallows, because he intended to lay hands on the Jews.
8 But you may write as you please with regard to the Jews, in the name of the king, and seal it with the king’s ring, for an edict written in the name of the king and sealed with the king’s ring cannot be revoked.”
9 The king’s scribes were summoned at that time, in the third month, which is the month of Sivan, on the twenty-third day. And an edict was written, according to all that Mordecai commanded concerning the Jews, to the satraps and the governors and the officials of the provinces from India to Ethiopia, 127 provinces, to each province in its own script and to each people in its own language, and also to the Jews in their script and their language.
10 And he wrote in the name of King Ahasuerus and sealed it with the king’s signet ring. Then he sent the letters by mounted couriers riding on swift horses that were used in the king’s service, bred from the royal stud.
11 By these letters the king allowed the Jews who were in every city to gather and defend their lives, to destroy, to kill, and to annihilate any armed force of any people or province that might attack them, children and women included, and to plunder their goods,
12 on one day in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar.
13 A copy of what was written was to be issued as a decree in every province, being publicly displayed to all peoples, and the Jews were to be ready on that day to take vengeance on their enemies.
14 The couriers mounted on their swift horses that were used in the king’s service went out, hurried by the king’s command, and the decree was issued in Susa the citadel.
15 Then Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal robes of blue and white, with a great golden crown and a robe of fine linen and purple, and the city of Susa shouted and rejoiced.
16 The Jews had light and gladness and joy and honor.
17 In every province and in every city, wherever the king’s command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday. And many from the peoples of the country declared themselves Jews, for fear of the Jews had fallen on them.
The True Meaning of Esther 8
The Book of Esther is believed to have been written by Mordecai, a Jewish exile living in Persia during the reign of King Xerxes. Mordecai was a prominent figure in the Jewish community and played a crucial role in the events described in this chapter. We witness the aftermath of Haman’s downfall and the reversal of his plot to annihilate the Jewish people in this chapter. The king’s decree to destroy the Jews has been issued, and Esther and Mordecai must act quickly to save their people. The chapter highlights the power of prayer, the importance of courage, and the ultimate triumph of justice over evil. Esther and Mordecai navigate the complex political landscape of the Persian court as they delve into this chapter, drawing on their faith and resourcefulness to protect their community. Their actions echo the words of Proverbs 21:1, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
Esther 8:1-2
Here is a breakdown of Esther 8:1-2:
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**”That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. God orchestrates the reversal of fortunes for His people in these verses. King Xerxes, upon learning of Haman’s evil intentions towards the Jews and Queen Esther’s plea for mercy, not only decrees the hanging of Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai but also grants Esther the estate that belonged to Haman. This act symbolizes the defeat of the enemies of God’s people and the restoration of what was rightfully theirs.
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The mention of Mordecai’s relation to Esther before the king is significant as it acknowledges the role Mordecai played in foiling the assassination plot against the king, which he had uncovered and reported through Esther. This act of loyalty and bravery by Mordecai is a reminder of the biblical principle of standing up for righteousness and being willing to risk everything for the cause of God’s kingdom.
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This passage serves as a powerful example of God’s divine justice and faithfulness to His people. It shows how He can turn the plans of the enemy against His children and how He exalts those who are faithful to Him. The story of Esther and Mordecai emphasizes the importance of standing firm in one’s faith, even in the face of great adversity, and trusting in God’s providence to bring about deliverance. Numerous other stories in the broader context of the Bible echo this theme of God’s protection and deliverance of His people, such as the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, Daniel in the lions’ den, and the three Hebrew men in the fiery furnace. These accounts serve to illustrate that God is always working behind the scenes for the well-being of those who belong to Him, even when it may seem like all hope is lost.
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“The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman’s estate.”
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The act of the king giving his signet ring to Mordecai symbolizes a transfer of power and authority. The signet ring was a symbol of the king’s authority, and by giving it to Mordecai, King Xerxes was essentially entrusting him with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of the kingdom. This gesture not only honors Mordecai but also signifies the king’s favor and approval of him.
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Esther appointing Mordecai over Haman’s estate further highlights the theme of reversal in this passage. Mordecai, who was once a humble servant at the king’s gate, is now elevated to a position of great influence and importance. This turn of events underscores the biblical principle of God exalting the humble and bringing down the prideful, as seen in verses like James 4:10, which says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
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The elevation of Mordecai to such a high position not only secures his own future but also ensures the protection and well-being of the Jewish people under his authority. This act of divine providence reinforces the message that God is faithful to His promises and will always raise up leaders who are aligned with His purposes to accomplish His plans on earth.
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This display of royal favor towards Mordecai and Esther signifies the victory of good over evil, righteousness over wickedness, and God’s sovereignty over the schemes of the enemy. It serves as a testament to the enduring truth that those who trust in the Lord and are obedient to His will will ultimately be blessed and prospered, regardless of the challenges they may face. Esther and Mordecai’s courageous actions showcase the unfolding of God’s divine plan of redemption and deliverance for His people in Esther 8:1-2. Their faithfulness, obedience, and willingness to risk everything for the sake of their fellow Jews exemplify the qualities of true heroes of the faith. The reversal of fortunes, the elevation of Mordecai, and the defeat of Haman all point to God’s sovereign hand at work, orchestrating events for the ultimate good of those who love Him. We, as believers, can draw strength and encouragement from this passage, knowing that our God is a God of justice, mercy, and unfailing love, who always fights on behalf of His children.
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Esther 8:3-6
The verse in Esther 8:3-6 can be broken down into different sections for a deeper understanding.
Starting with verse 3, it says, “Esther again pleaded with the king, falling at his feet and weeping. She begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews.” Here, we see Esther continuing her brave and strategic approach to gain the king’s favor. Esther’s humility is evident as she falls at the king’s feet, showing her desperation and genuine concern for her people. This moment is crucial as it shows Esther’s courage and determination in advocating for the Jews, risking her own life by approaching the king uninvited, which was punishable by death.
Moving on to verse 4, it reads, “Then the king extended the gold scepter to Esther and she arose and stood before him.” This act of King Xerxes extending the gold scepter to Esther symbolizes his acceptance and approval of her presence, granting her permission to speak. This gesture by the king is significant because it shows a shift in power dynamics, where Esther’s plea is being considered, and she is given the opportunity to address the king directly. It also demonstrates the king’s love and concern for Esther, further highlighting her influence over him.
Continuing to verse 5, it states, “‘If it pleases the king,’ she said, ‘and if he regards me with favor and thinks it the right thing to do, and if he is pleased with me, let an order be written overruling the dispatches that Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, devised and wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces.” Esther, in her wisdom, carefully phrases her request, acknowledging the king’s authority and seeking his approval before making her petition. She strategically emphasizes the king’s favor towards her and aligns her request with his potential interest in preserving peace and justice in his kingdom. This showcases Esther’s shrewdness and diplomacy in handling delicate matters with the king.
Lastly, in verse 6, it says, “For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?” Esther’s deep concern for her people and her attachment to her Jewish heritage are expressed powerfully in this verse. She identifies herself with her people and shares in their fate, displaying selflessness and compassion characteristic of a noble leader. Esther’s plea is driven by her sense of responsibility and loyalty to her community, embodying the virtues of courage, empathy, and self-sacrifice. Esther 8:3-6 illustrates the themes of courage, advocacy, diplomacy, and compassion. The characters in this passage, particularly Esther and King Xerxes, play pivotal roles in the story of Esther, showcasing how individuals can make a difference through bravery and strategic thinking. It emphasizes the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, and highlights the power of influence and persuasion in affecting positive change. Esther’s story not only serves as a historical account but also as a timeless example of faith, bravery, and divine intervention, reminding readers of God’s providence and how He works through His people to accomplish His purposes.
Esther 8:7-8
The verse in Esther 8:7-8 can be broken down into two significant sections: the royal edict granting the Jews the right to defend themselves and the method of communication by which the decree was disseminated. Firstly, the royal edict plays a pivotal role in the narrative of the Book of Esther as it reverses the previous decree issued by Haman to annihilate all Jews in the Persian Empire. This decree, instigated by Queen Esther and approved by King Xerxes, not only protects the Jewish people but also gives them the authority to defend themselves against their enemies. This turning point in the story signifies God’s providential care for His people and demonstrates how He can work through individuals to bring about salvation and deliverance for His chosen ones.
The second part of the verse focuses on the method of communication used to relay the royal edict. It states that it was written in the name of King Xerxes and sealed with the royal signet ring. This seal was a symbol of the king’s authority and authenticity, ensuring that the decree was official and binding. The use of seals or signet rings was common in ancient times to authenticate documents and signify the royal decree’s importance. The fact that the decree was written in the king’s name and sealed with his ring underscored the gravity of the situation and the irreversible nature of the edict, further emphasizing the significance of the Jews’ newfound protection and right to defend themselves.
The message conveyed in Esther 8:7-8 carries timeless lessons for readers today. It illustrates how God can overturn evil intentions and bring about justice for His people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The power of prayer, courage, and strategic thinking, as exemplified by Esther and Mordecai in the book, showcases the importance of relying on God’s wisdom and guidance in times of crisis. Additionally, the use of official decrees and seals in the narrative highlights the importance of legal and governmental authority, emphasizing the need for obedience to established laws while also recognizing the ultimate authority of God above all earthly rulers.
Further reflection on the theme of divine deliverance can be found in various passages of the Bible, such as Psalm 34:17-19 which states, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” This verse resonates with the overarching message of Esther 8:7-8, emphasizing God’s faithfulness in rescuing His people from harm and providing hope and salvation in times of distress.
Esther 8:9-14
Queen Esther, at the request of Mordecai, is given the authority by King Xerxes to issue a decree that counteracts the previous decree by Haman to annihilate the Jews in a pivotal moment in the book of Esther, as witnessed in Esther 8:9-14. This section of the passage underscores the themes of redemption, providence, and the sovereignty of God. It also emphasizes the power of courage and advocacy in the face of injustice.
Firstly, Esther’s role in the salvation of the Jewish people is highlighted here. Esther, who had initially concealed her Jewish identity, now boldly steps forward to intercede for her people. Through her courage and advocacy, she becomes the instrument for their deliverance. This narrative echoes the importance of standing up for justice and speaking out against oppression, even when faced with personal risk or discomfort. Esther’s transformation from a young woman chosen for her beauty to a fearless advocate demonstrates the empowering nature of faith and conviction.
Secondly, the reversal of Haman’s decree illustrates the concept of divine intervention and providence in the lives of believers. Despite the seemingly bleak circumstances the Jews faced, God orchestrated events in such a way that their destruction was averted. This echoes the biblical truth found in Romans 8:28, which states, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” The story of Esther serves as a tangible example of how God can turn the darkest situations around for His glory and the benefit of His people.
Additionally, the issuance of a new decree granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies underscores the importance of self-defense and the preservation of life. This decree not only allowed the Jews to protect themselves from those who sought their harm but also served as a deterrent to potential aggressors. This aligns with biblical teachings on self-preservation and the value of human life. The provision for self-defense in cases of imminent danger in Exodus 22:2-3 reinforces the idea that protecting oneself and others from harm is not only permissible but sometimes necessary. The timeframe given for the implementation of the new decree allows the Jews to prepare for their defense, signifying the importance of strategic planning and readiness in times of adversity. This demonstrates the wisdom of being proactive and prudent in the face of impending threats. Proverbs 21:31 states, “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD,” emphasizing the balance between human effort and divine providence in times of crisis. Esther 8:9-14 encapsulates profound lessons on courage, faith, divine intervention, justice, and strategic planning. It showcases the transformative power of advocacy, the assurance of God’s providential care, the importance of self-defense, and the value of preparedness in the midst of trials. This passage serves as a timeless reminder that even in the darkest moments, God’s light can shine through those who stand firm in their convictions and trust in His ultimate sovereignty.
Esther 8:15-17
Mordecai left the king’s presence wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold, and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor. Joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating, filled every province and every city to which the edict of the king came. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them.”
The first part of this passage describes a significant turning point for Mordecai. Once a humble figure in King Xerxes’ court, standing up for his people had earned him great honor and recognition. The royal garments and symbols of authority he now wears signify his elevated status in the kingdom. This transformation of Mordecai from a vulnerable exile to a respected leader reflects the theme of divine reversal that is prevalent throughout the book of Esther, where the humble are exalted and the proud are brought low. This serves as a powerful reminder of God’s ability to work behind the scenes to bring about justice and elevate those who remain faithful to Him.
The celebration in Susa and throughout the Persian Empire not only marks the deliverance of the Jews from Haman’s plot but also underscores the joy that comes from God’s faithfulness to His people. The Jews had faced a dire threat of annihilation, but through Esther’s courage and Mordecai’s wisdom, they were able to overturn the decree and defend themselves against their enemies. This victory is a testament to the providence of God and His commitment to protecting His chosen people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
The mention of many people of other nationalities choosing to become Jews due to the fear that had seized them highlights the impact of God’s miraculous deliverance on those outside the Jewish community. This is a fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3, where He declares that through Abraham’s descendants, all nations will be blessed. The conversion of these individuals demonstrates the universal reach of God’s salvation and the potential for redemption to extend beyond the boundaries of one particular group. It also serves as a reminder that God’s ways are not limited by human expectations or divisions, but rather His grace is available to all who choose to accept it.
After Esther 8
The king’s decree had been issued, and the Jewish people were granted the right to defend themselves against their enemies. Mordecai was now second-in-command, and the city of Susa was filled with joy and celebration. Yet, as the sun set on this momentous day, a solemn realization dawned. The battle was not yet over, for the seeds of hatred had been sown deep within the hearts of those who sought to destroy the Jewish people. The road ahead would be arduous, and the true test of their faith and resilience was yet to come. I, as the reverend, knew that the next chapter would reveal the true strength of the human spirit and the power of unwavering belief in the face of adversity.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.