in order to confirm these days of Purim at their appointed time, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established them and had committed themselves and their descendants to the times of fasting and lamentation. in order to establishThe phrase "in order to establish" indicates a deliberate and purposeful action. The Hebrew root word here is "קוּם" (qum), which means to arise, stand, or confirm. This suggests a sense of permanence and authority in the actions being taken. Historically, the establishment of Purim was not just a temporary measure but a lasting ordinance for the Jewish people, signifying the importance of remembering God's deliverance. these days of Purim at their appointed times just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had decreed for them, and as they had established for themselves and their descendants the matters of their fasting and lamentations Persons / Places / Events 1. Mordecai the JewA central figure in the Book of Esther, Mordecai is Esther's cousin and guardian. He plays a crucial role in the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot. 2. Queen Esther The Jewish queen of Persia who bravely intervenes to save her people from destruction. Her courage and faith are pivotal in the establishment of the festival of Purim. 3. Purim A Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. It is a time of feasting, joy, and giving gifts. 4. Fasting and Lamentations These practices were part of the Jewish response to the threat against them, showing their dependence on God and their repentance. 5. The Jewish People The community that was under threat of extermination but was delivered through the actions of Esther and Mordecai, leading to the celebration of Purim. Teaching Points The Importance of RemembranceJust as the Jews established Purim to remember their deliverance, Christians are called to remember God's faithfulness in their lives. This can be through personal testimonies, celebrations, or regular reflection on God's Word. Courage in Faith Esther's bravery in approaching the king is a powerful example of acting in faith despite fear. Believers are encouraged to step out in faith, trusting God with the outcomes. Community and Tradition The establishment of Purim highlights the role of community and tradition in faith. Christians can learn the value of gathering together to celebrate and remember God's work among them. Fasting and Prayer The initial response of fasting and lamentation by the Jews underscores the importance of seeking God earnestly in times of crisis. Believers are reminded of the power of prayer and fasting in seeking God's intervention. Generational Legacy The decree for future generations to observe Purim emphasizes the importance of passing down faith and testimonies to the next generation, ensuring that God's works are not forgotten. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the establishment of Purim as a memorial compare to other biblical feasts and commemorations, and what can we learn from these practices for our own spiritual lives?2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage in our faith like Esther, especially when facing difficult or fearful situations? 3. How can we incorporate the principles of fasting and prayer into our lives when seeking God's guidance or intervention? 4. What are some ways we can ensure that the accounts of God's faithfulness are passed down to future generations in our families or communities? 5. How does the account of Esther and the celebration of Purim illustrate the truth of Romans 8:28, and how can this encourage us in our current circumstances? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 17:14The command to remember and commemorate significant events, similar to the establishment of Purim as a memorial of God's deliverance. Leviticus 23 The establishment of feasts and holy days in the Jewish calendar, showing the importance of remembering God's acts of salvation. Psalm 30:11 The transformation of mourning into joy, reflecting the change from fasting and lamentation to celebration during Purim. Romans 8:28 The assurance that God works all things for good for those who love Him, as seen in the deliverance of the Jews in Esther. Hebrews 11:6 The importance of faith, as demonstrated by Esther and Mordecai in their trust in God's providence.
People Abihail, Adalia, Ahasuerus, Aridai, Aridatha, Arisai, Aspatha, Dalphon, Esther, Haman, Hammedatha, Mordecai, Parmashta, Parshandatha, Poratha, VajezathaPlaces SusaTopics Appointed, Confirm, Connection, Cry, Decreed, Descendants, Designated, Enjoined, Establish, Established, Esther, Fasting, Fastings, Fasts, Fixed, Force, Giving, Imposed, Instructions, Jew, Jews, Keeping, Laid, Lamentation, Lamentations, Lamenting, Law, Matter, Matters, Mordecai, Mor'decai, Observed, Ordained, Ordered, Purim, Queen, Regard, Rules, Seasons, Seed, ThemselvesDictionary of Bible Themes Esther 9:31Library Of the Practice of Piety in Holy Feasting. Holy feasting is a solemn thanksgiving, appointed by authority, to be rendered to God on some special day, for some extraordinary blessings or deliverances received. Such among the Jews was the feast of the Passover (Exod. xii. 15), to remember to praise God for their deliverance out of Egypt's bondage; or the feast of Purim (Esth. ix. 19, 21), to give thanks for their deliverance from Haman's conspiracy. Such amongst us is the fifth of November, to praise God for the deliverance of the king and … Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Tiberias. Some Miscellaneous Matters Respecting the Face of the Land. Place of Jesus in the History of the World. Esther Links Esther 9:31 NIVEsther 9:31 NLT Esther 9:31 ESV Esther 9:31 NASB Esther 9:31 KJV Esther 9:31 Commentaries Bible Hub |