Mordecai's Letter is a significant component of the narrative found in the Book of Esther, a canonical text in the Old Testament. This letter is pivotal in the establishment of the Jewish festival of Purim, commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia.

Historical Context

The events surrounding Mordecai's Letter occur during the Persian Empire's rule, specifically under King Xerxes, who reigned from 486 to 465 BC. The Jewish people, exiled from their homeland, were living in various provinces of the empire. The narrative unfolds in the capital city of Susa, where Mordecai, a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin, and his cousin Esther, who becomes queen, reside.

The Plot Against the Jews

Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official in King Xerxes' court, harbored a deep-seated animosity towards Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman devised a plan to destroy all the Jews in the empire, casting lots (purim) to determine the date of their annihilation. The king, unaware of Haman's true intentions, sanctioned the decree.

Mordecai's Intervention

Upon learning of the decree, Mordecai mourned publicly and urged Esther to intercede with the king. Esther, risking her life, approached the king and revealed Haman's plot. The king, incensed by Haman's treachery, ordered his execution and granted Esther and Mordecai the authority to issue a counter-decree.

The Letter and the Institution of Purim

Mordecai's Letter, as recorded in Esther 9:20-22, was sent to all the Jews throughout the provinces of the Persian Empire. The letter instructed them to observe the 14th and 15th days of the month of Adar annually as days of feasting and joy, celebrating their deliverance from their enemies. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far, to establish among them an annual celebration on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the days on which the Jews gained rest from their enemies—the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote to them to observe these days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor."

Significance

Mordecai's Letter is crucial in the Jewish tradition as it formalizes the observance of Purim, a festival that celebrates divine providence and deliverance. The letter emphasizes themes of reversal of fortune, the triumph of good over evil, and the importance of community solidarity and charity. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and protection over His people, even in foreign lands and under oppressive regimes.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Mordecai's Letter underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. It highlights the role of human agency in divine plans, as seen in Mordecai's and Esther's courageous actions. The letter also reflects the biblical principle of remembrance, encouraging future generations to recall and celebrate God's deliverance and faithfulness.