What is the meaning of Esther 9:26? Therefore these days are called Purim, The naming of the feast itself tells a story of deliverance that is meant to be remembered generation after generation. God’s people have long marked His mighty acts with celebrations that keep the memory alive (Exodus 12:14; Joshua 4:6–7). By calling the festival “Purim,” they set in stone the moment when a death sentence was overturned and sorrow became joy (Esther 9:22). • Like the Passover, Purim anchors Israel’s calendar to God’s saving power. • The title invites every participant to rehearse the narrative each year—as Psalm 78:4 urges, “We will not hide them from their children, but will declare…the wonders He has done”. Cross references: Exodus 12:14; Joshua 4:6–7; Psalm 78:4; Esther 9:22. from the word Pur “Pur” means the lot that Haman cast to choose a day for Israel’s destruction (Esther 3:7). By preserving the pagan term, the feast turns the enemy’s weapon into a memorial of God’s sovereignty. “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD” (Proverbs 16:33). • What Haman intended for evil, God redirected for good (Genesis 50:20). • The reversal echoes other moments when lots reaffirmed God’s control (Jonah 1:7; Acts 1:26). Cross references: Esther 3:7; Proverbs 16:33; Genesis 50:20; Jonah 1:7; Acts 1:26. Because of all the instructions in this letter Mordecai’s written decree (Esther 9:20–23) provided clear guidance on how and when to celebrate Purim. Obedience to God-honoring instruction protects His people from drifting into forgetfulness (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). • The written word standardizes practice, uniting scattered communities under one shared rhythm. • Submitting to inspired direction models the New Testament call to “hold fast the traditions…taught by word or letter” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). Cross references: Esther 9:20–23; Deuteronomy 6:6–9; 2 Thessalonians 2:15. and because of all they had seen and experienced The feast grew not only out of commands but out of lived rescue. Firsthand deliverance fuels heartfelt worship (Psalm 66:16). The people could point to specific dates, threats, and outcomes—“For the Jews it was a time of light and gladness, joy and honor” (Esther 8:16). • Personal testimony cements doctrine in everyday life (1 John 1:1–3). • Shared memories knit the community together and encourage future trust (2 Corinthians 1:10). Cross references: Psalm 66:16; Esther 8:16; 1 John 1:1–3; 2 Corinthians 1:10. summary Esther 9:26 explains that Purim received its name and enduring practice because God overturned Haman’s lot, preserved His people, and commanded them—through Mordecai’s letter—to remember what they had visibly experienced. Each phrase underscores God’s sovereignty, the value of written revelation, and the power of testimony, inviting every generation to celebrate His faithful deliverance with joy and unity. |
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