Esther 9:27

the Jews bound themselves to establish the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should not fail to celebrate these two days at the appointed time each and every year, according to their regulation.

Study Bible

the Jews bound themselves to establish the custom
This phrase highlights the communal decision of the Jewish people to formalize the observance of Purim. The binding nature of this decision reflects the seriousness with which they approached the commemoration of their deliverance. In biblical context, binding agreements were often made before God, indicating a solemn vow (see Nehemiah 10:29). This act of binding themselves can be seen as a covenantal action, reminiscent of other covenants in the Old Testament, such as those made by the Israelites at Sinai (Exodus 24:3-8).

that they and their descendants
The inclusion of descendants emphasizes the perpetuity of the observance. It underscores the importance of passing down faith and traditions through generations, a common theme in Jewish culture (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). This ensures that the memory of God's deliverance is not forgotten and that future generations understand their identity and history.

and all who join them
This phrase opens the observance to proselytes and those who align themselves with the Jewish people. It reflects the inclusive nature of the Jewish community, allowing others to partake in their religious and cultural practices. This inclusivity can be seen in other parts of Scripture, such as the acceptance of Ruth, a Moabite, into the Jewish community (Ruth 1:16-17).

should not fail to celebrate these two days
The emphasis on not failing to celebrate indicates the importance of consistency and faithfulness in religious observance. The two days refer to the 14th and 15th of Adar, as established earlier in the chapter. This regular celebration serves as a reminder of God's providence and protection, similar to other feasts like Passover (Exodus 12:14).

at the appointed time each and every year
The phrase underscores the importance of timing in religious observance. The appointed time is crucial, as it aligns with the historical events being commemorated. This mirrors other biblical feasts that are celebrated at specific times, such as the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:34). The annual repetition ensures that the story of Esther and the deliverance of the Jews remains a living tradition.

according to their regulation
This indicates that there were specific guidelines or rules established for the observance of Purim. These regulations would have included the reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther), feasting, and giving gifts to the poor. The establishment of regulations ensures uniformity and order in worship, akin to the detailed instructions given for other Jewish feasts (Leviticus 23).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jews
The Jewish people who were living in the Persian Empire during the time of Esther. They were the primary recipients of the decree to celebrate the festival of Purim.

2. Descendants
The future generations of Jews who were also bound by this decree to observe the festival of Purim annually.

3. All who joined them
This refers to any non-Jews who aligned themselves with the Jewish people, possibly through conversion or support, and who also committed to observing Purim.

4. Purim
The festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.

5. Regulation and appointed time
The specific guidelines and timing for the celebration of Purim, as established by Mordecai and Esther.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as the Jews committed to remembering their deliverance through Purim, Christians are called to remember God's faithfulness and deliverance in their own lives.

Generational Faithfulness
The commitment to pass down the observance of Purim highlights the importance of teaching future generations about God's works and faithfulness.

Inclusivity in Faith
The inclusion of "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim reflects the openness of God's covenant community to those who choose to align themselves with His people.

The Role of Tradition
While traditions like Purim are important, they should always point back to God's actions and character, rather than becoming empty rituals.

Celebration as Worship
Observing festivals and celebrations can be a form of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and goodness in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

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

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

3. How does the inclusion of "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim challenge us to be more inclusive in our faith communities today?

4. What are some traditions or celebrations in your life that help you remember and celebrate God's work? How can you ensure they remain meaningful?

5. How can the celebration of Purim inspire us to incorporate more intentional times of celebration and worship into our spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The establishment of the Passover as a perpetual observance for the Israelites, similar to how Purim was established as a lasting festival.

Leviticus 23
The listing of the appointed feasts of the Lord, which includes various celebrations that the Israelites were commanded to observe annually.

Psalm 145:4
The importance of one generation commending God's works to another, which is reflected in the commitment to pass down the observance of Purim to future generations.

Romans 11:17
The concept of Gentiles being grafted into the spiritual heritage of Israel, akin to "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim.