Esther 9 – From near destruction to victory

Esther 9 began by describing what happened when the day of reckoning for the Jews arrived. They didn't wait for their enemies to strike first. They acted, instead. What they did possibly surpass the decree’s limits. Yet, they resisted the temptation of plunder and remained on the path of righteousness. Recognizing Mordecai’s influence, the Persian officials wisely offered their support to the Jews.

Esther requested an extension for the Jews in Susa to carry out the king's edict and for Haman’s ten sons to be hanged. The king agreed, and the edict was issued. Furthermore, the Jews in Susa killed three hundred men on the fourteenth day of Adar but did not take any plunder. This meant that although the slaughter in the provincial areas was to last only one day, in the capital, it lasted two days.

Under the guidance of Mordecai, the grand occasion was marked by feasting, sharing food and gifts, and giving to the less fortunate. This spirit of unity and generosity became the essence of the annual festival, known as the Feast of Purim, a celebration of the Jews’ victory over Haman.

The word ‘Purim’ was the Hebrew plural of the Persian-Assyrian word pur, meaning ‘lots’; it was by casting lots that Haman chose the day for his attack. What was meant to be a day of doom turned into a day of triumph for the Jews. Esther and Mordecai then issued a formal decree, confirming Mordecai’s instructions concerning Purim as the official law for all Jews.

A lesson from this historical account is the importance of acting in adversity. The Jews didn't wait for their enemies to strike first but took action to protect themselves. Here, we also see a lesson in a commitment to righteousness: Despite the opportunity to plunder, they have moral integrity. Their resistance to the temptation of plunder and their commitment to righteousness are lessons in maintaining moral integrity during difficult times. Besides, establishing the Feast of Purim teaches us the value of unity, generosity, and commemorating victories amidst adversity.