Esther 9:26

Therefore these days are called Purim, from the word Pur. Because of all the instructions in this letter, and because of all they had seen and experienced,

Study Bible

Therefore these days are called Purim, from the word Pur.
The term "Purim" is derived from the word "Pur," which means "lot" in Persian. This refers to the lots cast by Haman to determine the date for the annihilation of the Jews (Esther 3:7). The casting of lots was a common practice in ancient cultures to make decisions or determine fate, and it highlights the theme of divine providence in the Book of Esther. Despite Haman's intentions, God orchestrated events to protect His people, turning a day of potential destruction into a time of celebration. The festival of Purim commemorates this deliverance and is celebrated annually by Jews worldwide. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, even when His presence is not overtly mentioned, as is the case in the Book of Esther.

Because of all the instructions in this letter,
The "letter" refers to the decree sent by Mordecai and Queen Esther to the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire, instructing them to observe the days of Purim (Esther 9:20-22). This letter was crucial in establishing Purim as an official and perpetual celebration. The instructions included feasting, rejoicing, and giving gifts to one another and to the poor, emphasizing community and charity. This reflects the biblical principle of remembering and celebrating God's deliverance, as seen in other Jewish festivals like Passover (Exodus 12:14). The written decree ensured that the memory of God's intervention would be preserved for future generations.

and because of all they had seen and experienced,
The Jewish people had witnessed firsthand the miraculous reversal of their fortunes. They experienced the threat of annihilation and the subsequent deliverance orchestrated through Esther and Mordecai's courage and faith. This phrase underscores the importance of personal and communal memory in the life of faith. The experiences of the Jews in Persia serve as a testament to God's protection and justice. This mirrors other biblical narratives where God's people are called to remember His mighty acts, such as the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14) and the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 4:1-7). The celebration of Purim serves as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His providence, even in dire circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
A Jewish queen of Persia who played a crucial role in saving her people from annihilation.

2. Mordecai
Esther's cousin and guardian, who uncovered a plot against the Jews and was instrumental in their deliverance.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plotted to destroy the Jews but was ultimately defeated.

4. Purim
A Jewish festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot.

5. Susa
The capital of the Persian Empire, where the events of Esther took place.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The account of Purim highlights God's control over history and events, even when He seems absent.

Courage and Faith
Esther's bravery in approaching the king teaches us to act in faith, trusting God's plan.

The Power of Prayer and Fasting
The Jews' response to their crisis with prayer and fasting is a model for seeking divine intervention.

Celebrating Deliverance
Purim is a reminder to celebrate and remember God's deliverance in our lives.

Justice and Reversal
The account illustrates the theme of divine justice and the reversal of evil plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the establishment of Purim as a festival help us understand the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can Esther's courage inspire us to take bold steps of faith in challenging situations?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in the casting of lots (Pur), provide comfort in uncertain times?

4. What role do prayer and fasting play in seeking God's guidance and intervention, and how can we incorporate these practices into our lives?

5. How can the account of Esther and the celebration of Purim encourage us to trust in God's justice and His ability to reverse evil plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17:8-16
The Amalekites' attack on Israel, which connects to Haman's lineage as an Agagite, a descendant of Amalek.

Proverbs 16:33
The casting of lots (Pur) and God's sovereignty over human decisions.

Romans 8:28
God's providence in working all things for the good of those who love Him, as seen in the deliverance of the Jews.

Psalm 121:4
God's constant vigilance over His people, akin to His protection of the Jews in Esther.

Daniel 6:26-27
God's deliverance of His people, similar to His intervention in the account of Esther.