Esther 9:20

Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far,

Study Bible

Mordecai recorded these events
Mordecai's role as a recorder highlights the importance of documenting God's deliverance and the establishment of the Feast of Purim. This act of recording is reminiscent of other biblical figures who documented significant events, such as Moses with the Pentateuch. It underscores the value of preserving history for future generations, ensuring that the acts of God are remembered and celebrated.

and sent letters to all the Jews
The sending of letters indicates the widespread communication network among the Jewish diaspora. This reflects the unity and organization of the Jewish people despite their dispersion. It also emphasizes the importance of community and shared identity among the Jews, as they were called to collectively remember and celebrate their deliverance.

in all the provinces of King Xerxes
King Xerxes, also known as Ahasuerus, ruled over a vast empire stretching from India to Ethiopia, comprising 127 provinces. This phrase highlights the extensive reach of the Persian Empire and the widespread presence of Jewish communities within it. The mention of these provinces underscores the miraculous nature of the Jews' deliverance, as it affected a vast and diverse region.

both near and far
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the message and the celebration of Purim. It signifies that no matter the geographical distance, all Jews were to partake in the remembrance of their salvation. This inclusivity mirrors the universal nature of God's covenant with His people, as seen in other scriptures where God's promises extend to all corners of the earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mordecai
A Jew in the Persian Empire who rose to prominence and played a crucial role in saving the Jewish people from destruction. He is the one who recorded the events and sent letters to the Jews.

2. The Jews
The recipients of Mordecai's letters, living throughout the provinces of King Xerxes' empire. They were the intended victims of Haman's plot but were delivered through God's providence.

3. King Xerxes
The Persian king during the time of Esther and Mordecai. His reign provided the backdrop for the events of the Book of Esther.

4. The Provinces of King Xerxes
The vast territories under the rule of King Xerxes, where the Jewish people were scattered.

5. The Events
Refers to the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot, which led to the establishment of the Feast of Purim as a time of celebration and remembrance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Mordecai's recording of events underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating God's deliverance. As believers, we should regularly recount and celebrate God's faithfulness in our lives.

The Power of Written Testimony
Mordecai's letters serve as a reminder of the power of written testimony to encourage and unite believers. We should consider how our own testimonies can impact others.

Unity Among Believers
Mordecai's communication with Jews across the empire highlights the importance of unity among God's people. We should strive to maintain unity within the body of Christ, regardless of geographical or cultural differences.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The events recorded by Mordecai demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence in delivering His people. We can trust in God's control over our circumstances and His ability to bring about deliverance.

Establishing Traditions of Faith
The establishment of the Feast of Purim as a result of these events encourages us to establish traditions that remind us of God's work in our lives and pass these on to future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mordecai's action of recording events and sending letters reflect the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we use written testimonies to encourage and strengthen the faith of others within our community?

3. How can the unity of the Jewish people in the provinces of King Xerxes inspire us to seek unity within the global church today?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How can you commemorate this event in a way that honors God and encourages others?

5. What traditions or practices can you establish in your family or community to ensure that the accounts of God's faithfulness are passed down to future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17:14
Just as God instructed Moses to record the victory over the Amalekites, Mordecai records the events of deliverance, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's acts of salvation.

Psalm 78:4-7
Highlights the importance of passing down the accounts of God's deliverance to future generations, similar to Mordecai's intent in sending letters to the Jews.

Romans 15:4
Reminds us that the Scriptures were written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope, paralleling Mordecai's recording of events for the encouragement of the Jewish people.