Esther 9:28

These days should be remembered and celebrated by every generation, family, province, and city, so that these days of Purim should not fail to be observed among the Jews, nor should the memory of them fade from their descendants.

Study Bible

These days
The phrase "These days" refers specifically to the days of Purim, a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The Hebrew word for "days" is "yāmîm," which often signifies not just a literal day but a period of time marked by significant events. In this context, it underscores the importance of these days as a time of divine intervention and communal celebration.

should be remembered
The Hebrew root for "remembered" is "zākar," which implies more than mere recollection; it involves an active commemoration and acknowledgment of God's providence and faithfulness. This remembrance is a call to keep the account alive, ensuring that the lessons and miracles of the past continue to inspire and guide future generations.

and celebrated
The word "celebrated" comes from the Hebrew "ʿāśâ," meaning to do or make. It suggests an active participation in festivities, highlighting the joy and gratitude that should accompany the remembrance of God's deliverance. This celebration is not just a passive acknowledgment but a vibrant, communal expression of faith and thanksgiving.

by every generation
"Every generation" emphasizes the perpetual nature of this observance. The Hebrew term "dôr" for generation indicates a continuous line of descendants. This phrase underscores the responsibility of each generation to pass down the account and significance of Purim, ensuring that the faith and identity of the Jewish people remain strong and unbroken.

every family
The inclusion of "every family" highlights the intimate and personal nature of the celebration. The Hebrew word "mišpāḥâ" for family signifies a household or clan, suggesting that the observance of Purim is not just a communal or national event but one that should be deeply rooted in the family unit, fostering unity and shared faith.

every province
"Every province" refers to the widespread nature of the Jewish diaspora at the time. The Hebrew "medînâ" indicates a jurisdiction or region, reflecting the vast reach of the Persian Empire. This phrase underscores the inclusivity of the celebration, uniting Jews across diverse regions in a shared history and faith.

and every city
The mention of "every city" further emphasizes the widespread observance of Purim. The Hebrew "ʿîr" for city suggests a populated area, indicating that the celebration should permeate all levels of society, from rural areas to urban centers, ensuring that the memory of deliverance is universally acknowledged.

so that these days of Purim
The specific mention of "these days of Purim" ties the observance directly to the historical events recorded in Esther. "Purim" comes from the word "pur," meaning lot, referring to the lots cast by Haman to determine the day of the Jews' destruction. This phrase serves as a reminder of the reversal of fate orchestrated by God, turning a day of potential doom into one of triumph.

should not fail
The phrase "should not fail" uses the Hebrew "ʿābar," meaning to pass or cease. It conveys the idea that the observance of Purim should never be neglected or forgotten. This is a call to vigilance in maintaining the traditions and accounts that define the Jewish faith and identity.

from among the Jews
"From among the Jews" specifies the primary custodians of this tradition. The Hebrew "Yehûdîm" for Jews identifies the ethnic and religious group responsible for preserving and perpetuating the memory of Purim, highlighting their unique covenant relationship with God.

nor the memory of them perish
The phrase "nor the memory of them perish" uses the Hebrew "šākah," meaning to forget or be forgotten. This is a strong admonition against allowing the significance of Purim to fade into obscurity. It underscores the importance of active remembrance and teaching to ensure that the lessons of the past continue to inform and inspire.

among their descendants
Finally, "among their descendants" emphasizes the generational transmission of faith and tradition. The Hebrew "zeraʿ" for descendants signifies seed or offspring, highlighting the continuity of the Jewish people and their responsibility to instill the values and accounts of Purim in future generations, ensuring that the legacy of God's deliverance endures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
A Jewish queen of Persia who played a crucial role in saving her people from annihilation.

2. Mordecai
Esther's cousin and guardian, who became a prominent figure in the Persian Empire and was instrumental in the establishment of the festival of Purim.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plotted to destroy the Jews, whose plans were thwarted by Esther and Mordecai.

4. Purim
A Jewish festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot, as described in the Book of Esther.

5. Persian Empire
The setting of the Book of Esther, where the events leading to the establishment of Purim took place.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as Purim is to be remembered and celebrated, Christians are called to remember God's faithfulness and deliverance in their own lives.

Generational Faithfulness
The command to celebrate Purim across generations highlights the importance of passing down faith and traditions to future generations.

Community and Unity
The celebration of Purim by every family, province, and city underscores the value of community and unity in faith practices.

God's Sovereignty and Deliverance
The account of Purim is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly impossible situations.

Celebration as Worship
Celebrating God's acts of deliverance, as seen in Purim, can be an act of worship and gratitude, reminding believers of His ongoing work in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the establishment of Purim as a lasting ordinance reflect the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the memory of God's faithfulness is passed down to future generations in our families and communities?

3. How does the unity and community aspect of Purim celebrations challenge us to foster a sense of togetherness in our faith communities today?

4. What are some modern-day "Purims" or acts of deliverance in your life that you can celebrate and remember as a testimony of God's faithfulness?

5. How can the account of Esther and the celebration of Purim inspire us to act courageously and faithfully in the face of adversity, trusting in God's sovereignty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The establishment of Passover as a perpetual remembrance for the Israelites, similar to the establishment of Purim as a lasting ordinance.

Psalm 145:4
The importance of one generation commending God's works to another, reflecting the call to remember and celebrate Purim across generations.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
The command to teach God's commandments to children, paralleling the instruction to ensure the memory of Purim does not fade.

2 Timothy 1:5
The passing down of faith through generations, akin to the remembrance of Purim by every family and generation.

Hebrews 11:32-34
The faith and courage of biblical figures, including those like Esther and Mordecai, who acted in faith to deliver their people.