Esther 9:28

These days should be remembered and celebrated by every generation, family, province, and city, so that these days of Purim should not fail to be observed among the Jews, nor should the memory of them fade from their descendants.

Study Bible

These days should be remembered and celebrated
The command to remember and celebrate highlights the importance of commemoration in Jewish tradition. This echoes the biblical principle of remembering God's deliverance, as seen in the Passover (Exodus 12:14). Celebrations serve as a means to pass down faith and history, ensuring that God's acts are not forgotten.

by every generation, family, province, and city
This phrase emphasizes the universal nature of the observance within the Jewish community. It underscores the unity and continuity of the Jewish people, regardless of geographical location. The inclusion of "every generation" ensures that the story of Esther and the deliverance of the Jews is perpetuated through time, similar to the instructions given for the Passover (Exodus 12:24-27).

so that these days of Purim should not fail to be observed among the Jews
Purim, established in the Book of Esther, is a festival of joy and thanksgiving for the deliverance from Haman's plot. The observance of Purim is a testament to God's providence and protection, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned in the text. This reflects the theme of divine sovereignty and hidden intervention.

nor should the memory of them fade from their descendants
The emphasis on memory ensures that future generations understand their heritage and the faithfulness of God. This is akin to the stones set up by Joshua as a memorial for crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 4:6-7). The preservation of memory is crucial for maintaining identity and faith continuity.

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 became a prominent figure in the Persian Empire and was instrumental in the establishment of the festival of Purim.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plotted to destroy the Jews, whose plans were thwarted by Esther and Mordecai.

4. Purim
A Jewish festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot, as described in the Book of Esther.

5. Persian Empire
The setting of the Book of Esther, where the events leading to the establishment of Purim took place.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as Purim is to be remembered and celebrated, Christians are called to remember God's faithfulness and deliverance in their own lives.

Generational Faithfulness
The command to celebrate Purim across generations highlights the importance of passing down faith and traditions to future generations.

Community and Unity
The celebration of Purim by every family, province, and city underscores the value of community and unity in faith practices.

God's Sovereignty and Deliverance
The account of Purim is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly impossible situations.

Celebration as Worship
Celebrating God's acts of deliverance, as seen in Purim, can be an act of worship and gratitude, reminding believers of His ongoing work in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the establishment of Purim as a lasting ordinance reflect the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the memory of God's faithfulness is passed down to future generations in our families and communities?

3. How does the unity and community aspect of Purim celebrations challenge us to foster a sense of togetherness in our faith communities today?

4. What are some modern-day "Purims" or acts of deliverance in your life that you can celebrate and remember as a testimony of God's faithfulness?

5. How can the account of Esther and the celebration of Purim inspire us to act courageously and faithfully in the face of adversity, trusting in God's sovereignty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The establishment of Passover as a perpetual remembrance for the Israelites, similar to the establishment of Purim as a lasting ordinance.

Psalm 145:4
The importance of one generation commending God's works to another, reflecting the call to remember and celebrate Purim across generations.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
The command to teach God's commandments to children, paralleling the instruction to ensure the memory of Purim does not fade.

2 Timothy 1:5
The passing down of faith through generations, akin to the remembrance of Purim by every family and generation.

Hebrews 11:32-34
The faith and courage of biblical figures, including those like Esther and Mordecai, who acted in faith to deliver their people.