Topical Bible: Lots, Feast of Purim: The: Began Fourteenth of Twelfth Month

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Feast of Purim is a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The name "Purim" is derived from the word "pur," meaning "lot," as Haman, the antagonist in the account, cast lots to determine the day on which he would execute his plan against the Jews (Esther 3:7).

Historical Background

The events leading to the establishment of Purim occurred during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king's court, harbored a deep-seated hatred for the Jewish people, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devised a scheme to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire. He cast lots to choose the date for this massacre, which fell on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar (Esther 3:13).

Divine Intervention and Deliverance

Queen Esther, a Jewess and the cousin of Mordecai, played a pivotal role in thwarting Haman's plan. Risking her life, she approached King Xerxes without being summoned, which could have resulted in her death. Esther revealed her Jewish identity and Haman's plot to the king, leading to Haman's downfall. The king ordered Haman to be hanged on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

Institution of the Feast

Following their deliverance, Mordecai and Esther established the Feast of Purim to be celebrated annually by the Jewish people. The festival was to be observed on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of Adar, commemorating the days when the Jews gained relief from their enemies and sorrow was turned into joy (Esther 9:20-22). The fourteenth day marked the beginning of the celebration, as the Jews in the provinces rested and made it a day of feasting and gladness.

Observance and Traditions

The Feast of Purim is characterized by joy and festivity. Traditional observances include the public reading of the Book of Esther, known as the Megillah, during which the name of Haman is drowned out by noise from the congregation. Other customs include giving gifts of food to friends, known as mishloach manot, and providing charity to the poor, known as matanot la'evyonim. Feasting and rejoicing are central to the celebration, reflecting the themes of deliverance and divine providence.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the Feast of Purim underscores the providence of God in the preservation of His people. Although the name of God is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is evident in the orchestration of events leading to the salvation of the Jews. The casting of lots by Haman, intended for evil, ultimately resulted in the triumph of good, illustrating the biblical principle that "the lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD" (Proverbs 16:33).

The Feast of Purim serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to protect and deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable threats, reinforcing the belief in His sovereign control over history.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Esther 9:17
On the thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook