The casting of the Pur is a significant event in the biblical narrative, particularly within the Book of Esther. The term "Pur" refers to the lot that was cast to determine the date for the annihilation of the Jewish people in the Persian Empire, as orchestrated by Haman, the antagonist in the account of Esther. This event is foundational to the Jewish festival of Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jews from this planned destruction.

Biblical Context

The account unfolds during the reign of King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I) of Persia. Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king's court, harbored a deep animosity towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman sought to destroy not only Mordecai but all Jews throughout the kingdom.

In Esther 3:7 , the casting of the Pur is described: "In the twelfth year of King Xerxes, in the first month, the month of Nisan, the Pur (that is, the lot) was cast before Haman to determine a day and a month. And the lot fell on the twelfth month, the month of Adar." This casting of lots was a common practice in the ancient Near East, often used to make decisions or determine fate, believed to be guided by divine will.

Significance in the Book of Esther

The casting of the Pur is pivotal in the narrative, as it sets the stage for the dramatic reversal of fortune that characterizes the Book of Esther. Haman's plot is ultimately thwarted through the courage and wisdom of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai. Esther, risking her life, reveals her Jewish identity to the king and exposes Haman's scheme. Consequently, Haman is executed, and the king issues a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves.

The deliverance of the Jews is celebrated annually during the festival of Purim, named after the Pur. Esther 9:24-26 explains: "For Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had plotted against the Jews to destroy them and had cast the Pur (that is, the lot) to crush and destroy them. But when it came to the king’s attention, he issued a written order that the wicked scheme Haman had devised against the Jews should come back on his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows. Therefore these days were called Purim, from the word Pur."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the casting of the Pur highlights the providence of God in the affairs of His people. While the lot was cast by human hands, the outcome was ultimately under divine control, ensuring the survival and triumph of the Jewish people. This event underscores the biblical theme that God is sovereign over history and the destinies of nations, working through seemingly ordinary events to accomplish His purposes.

The account of the Pur and the subsequent celebration of Purim serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and deliverance, encouraging believers to trust in His sovereign will even in the face of adversity. The casting of the Pur, intended for evil, becomes a symbol of hope and divine intervention, illustrating the biblical truth that "the lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD" (Proverbs 16:33).