God's Blessing

Esther 9 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

1 Now in the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king’s command and edict were about to be carried out, on the very day when the enemies of the Jews hoped to gain the mastery over them, the reverse occurred: the Jews gained mastery over those who hated them.
2 The Jews gathered in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus to lay hands on those who sought their harm. And no one could stand against them, for the fear of them had fallen on all peoples.
3 All the officials of the provinces and the satraps and the governors and the royal agents also helped the Jews, for the fear of Mordecai had fallen on them.
4 For Mordecai was great in the king’s house, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces, for the man Mordecai grew more and more powerful.
5 So the Jews struck all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them, and did as they pleased to those who hated them.
6 In Susa the citadel itself the Jews killed and destroyed 500 men,
7 And Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha,
8 But the land lay quiet before Mordecai.
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 the ten sons of Haman the son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews, but they laid no hand on the plunder.
11 On that day the number of those who were killed in Susa the citadel was reported to the king.
12 And the king said to Queen Esther, “In Susa the citadel the Jews have killed and destroyed five hundred men and also the ten sons of Haman. What then have they done in the rest of the king’s provinces? Now what is your wish? It shall be granted you. And what is your further request? It shall be fulfilled.”
13 And Esther said, “If it please the king, let the Jews who are in Susa be allowed tomorrow also to do according to this day’s edict. And let the ten sons of Haman be hanged on the gallows.”
14 So the king commanded this to be done. A decree was issued in Susa, and the ten sons of Haman were hanged.
15 The Jews who were in Susa gathered also on the fourteenth day of the month of Adar and they killed 300 men in Susa, but they laid no hands on the plunder.
16 Now the rest of the Jews who were in the king’s provinces also gathered to defend their lives, and got relief from their enemies and killed seventy-five thousand of those who hated them, but they laid no hands on the plunder.
17 This was on the thirteenth day of the month of Adar, and on the fourteenth day they rested and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
18 But the Jews who were in Susa gathered on the thirteenth day and on the fourteenth, and rested on the fifteenth day, making that a day of feasting and gladness.
19 Therefore the Jews of the villages, who live in the rural towns, hold the fourteenth day of the month of Adar as a day for gladness and feasting, as a holiday, and as a day on which they send gifts of food to one another.
20 And Mordecai recorded these things and sent letters to all the Jews who were in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, both near and far,
21 to command them to keep the fourteenth day of the month of Adar and also the fifteenth day of the same, year by year, as the days on which the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month that had been turned for them from sorrow into gladness and from mourning into a holiday; that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, days for sending gifts of food to one another and gifts to the poor.
22 as the days on which the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month that had been turned for them from sorrow into gladness and from mourning into a holiday; that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, days for sending gifts of food to one another and gifts to the poor.
23 The Jews accepted what they had started to do, and what Mordecai had written to them.
24 For Haman the Agagite, the son of Hammedatha, the enemy of all the Jews, had plotted against the Jews to destroy them, and had cast Pur (that is, cast lots), to crush and to destroy them.
25 But when it came before the king, he gave orders in writing that his evil plan that he had devised against the Jews should return on his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows.
26 Therefore they called these days Purim, after the term Pur. So, because of all that was written in this letter, and of what they had faced in this matter, and of what had happened to them,
27 the Jews firmly obligated themselves and their offspring and all who joined them, that without fail they would keep these two days according to what was written and at the time appointed every year,
28 that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, in every clan, province, and city, and that these days of Purim should never fall into disuse among the Jews, nor should the commemoration of these days cease among their descendants.
29 Then Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew gave full written authority, confirming this second letter about Purim.
30 Letters were sent to all the Jews, to the 127 provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, in words of peace and truth,
31 to confirm these days of Purim at their appointed time, as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther obligated them, and as they had obligated themselves and their offspring, with regard to their fasts and their lamenting.
32 The command of Esther confirmed these practices of Purim, and it was recorded in writing.

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The True Meaning of Esther 9

The Book of Esther is believed to have been written by Mordecai, a Jewish exile living in Persia during the reign of King Xerxes. This chapter recounts the climactic events of the Jewish people’s deliverance from the plot to annihilate them, as orchestrated by the wicked Haman. The Jews rise up to defend themselves against their enemies in this passage, a dramatic reversal of their fortunes. The king’s decree, once used to target the Jews, is now turned against their would-be executioners. We witness the triumph of God’s people, who are able to avenge themselves and secure their future in the land.

This chapter echoes the sentiment expressed in Proverbs 21:30, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.” Haman’s evil scheme, hatched in the shadows, is ultimately brought to ruin by the sovereign hand of the Almighty. The Jews’ deliverance foreshadows the ultimate victory of God’s people over the forces of darkness, as promised in Revelation 19:11-16.

Esther 9:1-4

The events that took place on the day set for the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies are the focus in Esther 9:1-4. This was a pivotal moment that determined the survival of the Jewish people who were under threat from their enemies. The verse specifically mentions that on that day, the tables turned, and the Jews gained the upper hand over those who sought to harm them. This section emphasizes the theme of divine justice and protection for God’s people as they faced adversity.

It is crucial to understand the background leading up to this point in the book of Esther. Esther, a Jewish woman, had become Queen of Persia, unknowingly entering a position where she could influence the king’s decree to save her people. Haman, the enemy of the Jews, had plotted to destroy them, and Esther’s intervention was crucial in thwarting his plans. Through a series of events orchestrated by God, Esther revealed the plot to the king, and Haman was ultimately defeated and executed. This passage underscores the message that God is faithful to His promises and provides deliverance to His people in times of trouble in the broader context of the Bible. The triumph of the Jews over their enemies serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and protection. It also highlights the importance of standing firm in faith and trusting in God’s provision even in the face of adversity.

This section of Esther 9 sets the stage for the unfolding events where the Jews are not only permitted to defend themselves but also to take vengeance on those who had sought to destroy them. The narrative demonstrates a clear shift in power dynamics, illustrating the reversal of fortunes for the Jewish people who had been under threat.

The victorious outcome of this battle is a testament to the providence of God and His faithfulness in preserving His chosen people. It also serves as a reminder that God works in mysterious ways, using unexpected individuals like Esther to carry out His plans and bring about justice. The verses in Esther 9:1-4 highlight the themes of divine protection, justice, and deliverance for God’s people. The events described serve as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty, showcasing His ability to turn the tide in favor of those who trust in Him. The story of Esther and the deliverance of the Jews from their enemies offer timeless lessons on courage, faith, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil as orchestrated by God’s providential hand.

Esther 9:5-10

The text in Esther 9:5-10 details how the Jewish people defended themselves against those who sought to harm them. The sections can be broken down as follows:

  1. “The Jews struck down all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them, and did as they pleased to those who hated them.” This verse depicts the Jewish people rising up in self-defense against their enemies. It is important to note the significance of this self-defense in the context of the story of Esther. The Jewish people were facing an existential threat due to Haman’s plot to annihilate them. The tables had turned, and as a result of Esther’s intercession with the king, the Jewish people were given permission to defend themselves. This act highlights the theme of divine deliverance and protection for God’s chosen people.

  2. The Jews killed and destroyed five hundred men in the citadel of Susa.” This verse speaks to the specific location where the Jewish people were engaged in battle. Susa was the capital of Persia, and it was here that the Jewish people fought against their enemies. The number five hundred is significant as it shows the extent of the Jewish people’s victory in this particular location.

  3. “They also killed Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vaizatha,” This list of names represents the ten sons of Haman who were also killed during this battle. This act of retribution serves as a completion of the punishment intended for Haman’s original wicked plot against the Jews. These names are significant as they symbolize the eradication of the evil deeds of Haman and his descendants. This act of justice demonstrates the biblical principle that God is just and that evil will ultimately be defeated.

  4. “But they did not lay their hands on the plunder.” This verse highlights the integrity and righteousness of the Jewish people. Despite their victory in battle, they did not seek personal gain or material wealth from their enemies. This demonstrates their obedience to God’s commandments and their focus on justice rather than greed. This act of restraint reinforces the importance of upholding moral values even in the face of conflict and victory. Esther 9:5-10 portrays the victory and vindication of the Jewish people against those who sought to harm them. It also underscores the themes of divine protection, justice, and righteousness. This passage serves as a reminder that God is faithful to His promises and that those who stand firm in their faith will ultimately triumph over evil. It is a testament to the unwavering trust that the Jewish people placed in God amidst adversity, and their obedience to His will even in moments of victory. This victory also echoes the biblical principle found in Romans 12:19, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”

Esther 9:11-15

Esther 9:11-15 records the actions of Queen Esther in response to the request of King Xerxes to know if there was any additional request she had after the first day of the Jews’ victory over their enemies. Esther requests in verse 12 that the Jews in Susa be allowed to carry out another day of fighting to finish off their enemies who had not been killed in the initial battle. She specifically asks for the bodies of Haman’s ten sons to be impaled on poles as a warning to anyone who might seek to harm the Jews. King Xerxes grants her request, showing his continued support for the Jews.

Queen Esther’s request for the hanging of Haman’s ten sons on poles serves as a significant moment in the story. These ten sons of Haman were responsible for orchestrating the plot to destroy the Jews, and their deaths symbolize the defeat of their evil plans. The hanging of their bodies was not only a form of justice but also a powerful message to all who sought to harm God’s people. This act reflected the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7), as Haman’s sons faced the consequences of their father’s wickedness.

This passage highlights the victory that God granted to the Jews through Queen Esther and Mordecai. Their courage and faithfulness to their people played a crucial role in the salvation of the Jewish nation. The people of Susa, upon seeing the display of Haman’s sons’ bodies, were filled with great fear and respect for the Jews (Esther 9:15). This fear was a recognition of the power and protection that God had bestowed upon His chosen people.

Furthermore, this event brings to mind the concept of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous accounts of God executing justice on behalf of His people and bringing judgment upon the wicked. The story of Esther is a powerful reminder that no scheme of man can stand against the purposes of God (Psalm 33:10-11). It serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving and delivering His people from their enemies. Queen Esther and Mordecai showcase the victory and deliverance of the Jews through their bravery and wisdom in Esther 9:11-15. It demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His people and His sovereignty over the affairs of men. The hanging of Haman’s ten sons serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of wickedness and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. Through this story, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s providence and seeking His guidance in times of trouble.

Esther 9:16-19

The verses in Esther 9:16-19 describe the celebration of the Jews after successfully defending themselves against those who sought to destroy them. The sections can be broken down as follows:

  1. “Meanwhile, the other Jews who were in the king’s provinces also gathered to defend themselves and get relief from their enemies. They killed seventy-five thousand of them but did not lay their hands on the plunder. The Jewish people in different provinces banded together to protect themselves, showing unity and solidarity. The fact that they did not take plunder, even though they had the opportunity to do so, shows their commitment to righteousness and justice. This demonstrates the importance of standing together in times of adversity and not being tempted by personal gain during moments of victory. This act of strong unity and self-defense is reminiscent of other biblical stories of standing firm against persecution, such as the Israelites’ victory at Jericho in Joshua 6.

  2. “This happened on the thirteenth day of the month of Adar, and on the fourteenth they rested and made it a day of feasting and joy.” (Esther 9:17)
    The mention of the specific date, the thirteenth day of Adar, is significant as this was the day they fought against their enemies. The following day, the Jews rested and celebrated their victory with feasting and joy. This highlights the importance of rest and celebration after periods of struggle and conflict. It reminds us of the biblical principle of celebrating victories and honoring God’s faithfulness during times of triumph in a broader context. The Sabbath day in Exodus 20:8-11 is set apart for rest and reflection on the goodness of God, similar to the Jews resting after their battle in Esther.

  3. “That is why rural Jews—those living in villages—observe the fourteenth of the month of Adar as a day of joy and feasting, a day for giving presents to each other.” (Esther 9:19)
    The mention of rural Jews, those living in villages, underlines the widespread nature of the celebration and how it extended beyond the capital city of Susa. The emphasis on joy, feasting, and giving presents to each other symbolizes the joy and unity that come from overcoming adversity and standing firm in faith. This act of giving presents also echoes the biblical principle of generosity and care for one another, as exemplified in the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. The verses in Esther 9:16-19 highlight the themes of unity, celebration, and faithfulness in the face of adversity. The Jewish people’s solidarity in defending themselves against their enemies serves as a reminder of the importance of standing firm in faith and supporting one another in times of need. The celebration and feasting that followed their victory emphasize the significance of rest, joy, and giving thanks to God for His deliverance. The events in Esther 9 continue to teach us timeless lessons about the power of unity, the importance of celebration after triumphs, and the generosity that comes from a heart filled with gratitude and faith.

Esther 9:20-22

Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews throughout the provinces of King Xerxes, near and far, to have them celebrate annually the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.”

This passage holds significant value as it marks the establishment of the feast of Purim. The story of Esther is one of deliverance and divine intervention. Queen Esther, a Jewish orphan who becomes the queen of Persia, has a key role in the salvation of the Jewish people. When Haman, the evil advisor to King Xerxes, plotted to annihilate the Jews, Esther bravely revealed her Jewish identity to the king and pleaded for her people’s salvation. Through a series of events orchestrated by God, the tables turned on Haman, and the Jews were saved from destruction.

Mordecai, who had raised Esther as his own daughter and played a significant part in uncovering the plot against the Jews, takes the initiative to institutionalize the celebration of their deliverance. Mordecai ensures the memory of God’s deliverance would be preserved and celebrated annually by sending letters to the Jews throughout the Persian Empire. This act highlights the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance in times of trouble.

The feast of Purim, established in these verses, serves as a reminder of how God works behind the scenes to protect His people and fulfill His promises. It also emphasizes the importance of communal celebration and remembrance. The act of giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor reflects the values of generosity and compassion, which are also emphasized throughout the Bible.

The celebration of Purim is not just a historical event for the Jewish people but carries timeless messages for all believers. It reminds us of the power of prayer, the unexpected ways in which God can work in our lives, the courage to stand up for what is right, and the importance of unity and community. We are called to remember and celebrate God’s faithfulness in our own lives and share the message of hope and salvation with others, just as Mordecai ensured that the story of deliverance was not forgotten.

Esther 9:23-28

  1. Mordecai and Queen Esther established the Feast of Purim to commemorate the deliverance of the Jewish people from the plotted annihilation by Haman in Esther 9:23-28. The verses also mention the obligation of Jews to observe these two days of Purim at the appointed time annually.

  2. This verse highlights the significance of establishing Purim as a time of celebration and thanksgiving for the Jewish people. This commemoration not only served as a reminder of God’s deliverance but also as a way to unite the Jewish community in remembrance and gratitude.

Verse 24: The verse stresses the importance of the obligation placed on the Jewish people to remember and observe the days of Purim, ensuring that future generations would not forget the miraculous events that unfolded. This underscores the idea of passing down traditions and stories to preserve cultural and religious identity.

Verse 25: The mention of the decree being recorded emphasizes the formalization of Purim as a sanctioned observance within Jewish tradition. This act of recording the events served as a permanent testament to God’s faithfulness and intervention in the lives of His people.

Verses 26-28: These verses focus on the commitment of the Jewish people to uphold the observance of Purim. It highlights their pledge to remember and celebrate the deliverance they experienced. This dedication to maintaining the observance of Purim reflects the importance of honoring and acknowledging God’s providence in the history of His people.

  1. Relevance to the Bible’s Timeless Messages:

The establishment of the Feast of Purim and its annual observance exemplify the biblical themes of remembrance, gratitude, and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God is intimately involved in the affairs of His people and works on their behalf, even in the face of great adversity.

Mordecai and Esther’s actions in instituting Purim also underscore the importance of courage, wisdom, and obedience to God’s calling. Throughout the Bible, we see various individuals who, like Esther and Mordecai, stepped out in faith and played a crucial role in God’s redemptive plan.

The Feast of Purim is a celebration of God’s faithfulness, deliverance, and sovereignty over the forces of evil. It encourages believers to trust in God’s providence, even in the midst of challenges and threats. The story of Esther and the establishment of Purim in the broader context of the Bible serve as a reminder that God can use ordinary individuals to accomplish His purposes and bring about extraordinary deliverance. This narrative echoes the overarching theme of God’s presence, protection, and provision for His people throughout history.

The celebration of Purim continues today as a testament to God’s faithfulness and a reminder of the resilience of His people in the face of adversity. It stands as a timeless example of how remembrance, gratitude, and obedience to God’s commands are integral to preserving the identity and faith of His followers throughout generations.

Esther 9:29-32

Esther 9:29-32 presents the conclusion of the story of Esther and the miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people from the evil plot of Haman. Identify the subject: “Let’s”

Rewritten sentence: Let’s break down this verse into important sections and delve deeper into its significance in the Bible.

  1. “Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim.”

Here, Queen Esther and Mordecai, the heroes of the story, are shown to be the ones who authored and confirmed the letter regarding the establishment of the celebration of Purim. This solidifies the importance of their roles in God’s plan for the deliverance of His people. Their act of recording and establishing the celebration of Purim ensures that future generations will remember and commemorate the victory that God granted to the Jews.

Esther and Mordecai’s actions serve as a testament to the faithfulness of God in protecting and delivering His people. Their obedience to God’s plan, despite the risks involved, led to the preservation of the Jewish people. This echoes the theme of God’s providence and faithfulness found throughout the Bible. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Esther and Mordecai’s courage to trust in God’s plan, even in the face of great danger, resulted in the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

  1. “And Mordecai sent letters to all the Jews in the 127 provinces of Xerxes’ kingdom—words of goodwill and assurance— to establish these days of Purim at their designated times, as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had decreed for them, and as they had established for themselves and their descendants in regard to their times of fasting and lamentation.”

Mordecai’s actions in sending letters to all the Jews in the vast kingdom of Xerxes to establish the celebration of Purim highlight his concern for the unity and well-being of the Jewish people. He solidifies a sense of community and shared history among the Jews across the empire by ensuring that they observe Purim. This act symbolizes the importance of unity among believers in upholding traditions and commemorating God’s faithfulness.

The commemoration of Purim not only served as a reminder of the past deliverance of the Jewish people but also pointed forward to the ultimate deliverance that would come through the promised Messiah. Christians today are called to remember and celebrate the salvation provided through Jesus Christ. Jesus established the Lord’s Supper as a commemoration of His sacrifice on the cross, just as Purim was instituted to commemorate a historical event (Luke 22:19).

  1. “They were to observe these days with feasting and gladness, and to send portions of food to one another and gifts to the poor.”

The directive to celebrate Purim with feasting, gladness, and acts of charity reflects the heart of God towards His people. The emphasis on sharing with the poor and giving gifts highlights the importance of caring for those in need and showing love to others. This act of generosity and compassion echoes biblical principles found in passages such as Proverbs 19:17, which states, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

Furthermore, the celebration of Purim serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in providing for His people even in the midst of adversity. It encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and to rejoice in His deliverance. The joy and gratitude displayed during Purim mirror the joy that comes from experiencing God’s salvation. Psalm 30:11-12 captures this sentiment, “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.”

After Esther 9

The Jews had triumphed over their enemies. They had defended themselves and destroyed those who sought to harm them. The king had granted the Jews the right to defend themselves, and they had done so with courage and determination. The reverend knew that the story was not yet complete as the sun set on that day of victory. The Jews had won a great battle, but the true test would come in the days and weeks ahead. How would they respond to this newfound freedom? Would they use it wisely, or would they be consumed by the thirst for vengeance? The reverend knew that the answers to these questions would shape the future of the Jewish people, and he prepared to guide his flock through the challenges that lay ahead.