Esther 9:26

Therefore these days are called Purim, from the word Pur. Because of all the instructions in this letter, and because of all they had seen and experienced,

Study Bible

Therefore these days
This phrase refers to the specific days that were set apart to commemorate the deliverance of the Jewish people from their enemies. In the Hebrew context, "days" (יָמִים, yamim) often signifies appointed times or seasons, which are significant in Jewish tradition for remembrance and celebration. The establishment of these days underscores the importance of remembering God's providence and intervention in history.

were called Purim
The name "Purim" is derived from the word "Pur," which means "lot" in Persian. This is a direct reference to the lots cast by Haman to determine the day on which to annihilate the Jews (Esther 3:7). The transformation of a day of potential destruction into a day of celebration highlights God's sovereignty and the reversal of human plans through divine intervention. The naming of the festival serves as a perpetual reminder of God's deliverance.

from the word Pur
The use of "Pur" emphasizes the randomness of the lots cast by Haman, which were intended to bring about the destruction of the Jews. However, in a divine twist, what was meant for evil was turned to good. This reflects the biblical theme found in Genesis 50:20, where Joseph tells his brothers, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good." The casting of lots, a common practice in ancient times, is shown to be under God's control.

Because of everything written in this letter
The "letter" refers to the edict sent out by Mordecai and Esther to establish the observance of Purim (Esther 9:20-22). This written record was crucial for ensuring that the memory of these events would be preserved for future generations. In the ancient Near East, written documents were authoritative and served as a means to formalize and legitimize practices and traditions.

and because of what they had seen
This phrase highlights the eyewitness nature of the events. The Jewish people had personally experienced the threat of annihilation and the subsequent deliverance. Their firsthand experience added weight to the observance of Purim, as it was not merely a tradition handed down but a lived reality. This personal testimony is a powerful aspect of faith, as seen throughout Scripture.

and what had happened to them
The phrase underscores the historical reality of the events. The Jews were not only witnesses but also participants in the unfolding of God's plan. This involvement in God's redemptive history is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God's people are called to remember and recount His mighty acts. The celebration of Purim serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

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 uncovered a plot against the Jews and was instrumental in their deliverance.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plotted to destroy the Jews but was ultimately defeated.

4. Purim
A Jewish festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot.

5. Susa
The capital of the Persian Empire, where the events of Esther took place.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The account of Purim highlights God's control over history and events, even when He seems absent.

Courage and Faith
Esther's bravery in approaching the king teaches us to act in faith, trusting God's plan.

The Power of Prayer and Fasting
The Jews' response to their crisis with prayer and fasting is a model for seeking divine intervention.

Celebrating Deliverance
Purim is a reminder to celebrate and remember God's deliverance in our lives.

Justice and Reversal
The account illustrates the theme of divine justice and the reversal of evil plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the establishment of Purim as a festival help us understand the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can Esther's courage inspire us to take bold steps of faith in challenging situations?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in the casting of lots (Pur), provide comfort in uncertain times?

4. What role do prayer and fasting play in seeking God's guidance and intervention, and how can we incorporate these practices into our lives?

5. How can the account of Esther and the celebration of Purim encourage us to trust in God's justice and His ability to reverse evil plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17:8-16
The Amalekites' attack on Israel, which connects to Haman's lineage as an Agagite, a descendant of Amalek.

Proverbs 16:33
The casting of lots (Pur) and God's sovereignty over human decisions.

Romans 8:28
God's providence in working all things for the good of those who love Him, as seen in the deliverance of the Jews.

Psalm 121:4
God's constant vigilance over His people, akin to His protection of the Jews in Esther.

Daniel 6:26-27
God's deliverance of His people, similar to His intervention in the account of Esther.