Esther 9:21

to establish among them an annual celebration on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar

Study Bible

to establish among them
This phrase indicates the formalization of a practice or tradition. In the context of the Book of Esther, it refers to the institution of the Feast of Purim. The establishment of such a celebration underscores the importance of remembering God's deliverance and the preservation of the Jewish people. This act of establishing a tradition is consistent with other biblical mandates to remember significant acts of God, such as the Passover (Exodus 12:14).

an annual celebration
The concept of an annual celebration highlights the importance of regular remembrance and thanksgiving. In Jewish culture, annual feasts and festivals serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and covenant with His people. This particular celebration, Purim, is a time of joy and festivity, commemorating the Jews' deliverance from Haman's plot. It parallels other annual observances like the Feast of Tabernacles and the Day of Atonement, which are also times of reflection and celebration.

on the fourteenth and fifteenth days
The specific mention of the fourteenth and fifteenth days indicates the precise timing of the celebration, which aligns with the Jewish lunar calendar. These days were chosen because they mark the time when the Jews rested from their enemies and celebrated their victory. The two-day celebration allows for the inclusion of Jews from both walled and unwalled cities, as the events unfolded differently in these locations (Esther 9:17-19).

of the month of Adar
Adar is the twelfth month of the Jewish calendar, typically falling in February or March. It is a month associated with joy and deliverance, as Purim is celebrated during this time. The timing of Purim in Adar is significant because it precedes Passover, another festival of deliverance. The month of Adar is also a time when Jews prepare for the spiritual renewal of Passover, making the themes of redemption and divine intervention particularly poignant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mordecai
A Jewish leader and cousin of Esther who played a crucial role in the events leading to the Jews' deliverance from Haman's plot. He is instrumental in establishing the celebration of Purim.

2. Esther
The Jewish queen of Persia who bravely intervened to save her people from destruction. Her actions are central to the events commemorated by Purim.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plotted to annihilate the Jews in the Persian Empire. His downfall is a key event leading to the celebration of Purim.

4. Purim
The Jewish festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot. It is celebrated annually on the 14th and 15th of Adar.

5. Adar
The twelfth month of the Jewish calendar, during which the events of Purim took place.

Teaching Points

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

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The account of Esther highlights God's providential care and sovereignty, reminding believers that God is in control even when His presence is not overtly visible.

Community and Celebration
The establishment of Purim emphasizes the importance of community and shared celebration in remembering God's acts of salvation.

Courage and Faithfulness
Esther's courage and Mordecai's faithfulness serve as examples for believers to stand firm in their faith and act courageously in the face of adversity.

Transformation of Sorrow to Joy
The transformation from a decree of destruction to a celebration of deliverance encourages believers to trust in God's ability to turn situations around for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the establishment of Purim as an annual celebration reflect the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and providence at work in the account of Esther, and how does this encourage us in our current circumstances?

3. How can the themes of courage and faithfulness in Esther's account inspire us to act in our own spheres of influence?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate community and celebration into our spiritual lives, similar to the celebration of Purim?

5. How does the transformation from mourning to joy in Esther's account relate to other biblical accounts of God's deliverance, and how can this encourage us today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The establishment of Passover as a perpetual celebration for the Israelites parallels the institution of Purim as a remembrance of deliverance.

Psalm 30
The theme of turning mourning into joy resonates with the transformation experienced by the Jews in Esther's account.

Nehemiah 8
The reading and understanding of the Law, leading to joy and celebration, mirrors the communal remembrance and celebration seen in Purim.