Esther 9:27

the Jews bound themselves to establish the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should not fail to celebrate these two days at the appointed time each and every year, according to their regulation.

Study Bible

the Jews established
The Hebrew word for "established" is "קִיֵּם" (kiyem), which conveys the idea of confirming or making something firm. In the context of Esther, this reflects the Jewish community's determination to solidify the observance of Purim as a perpetual celebration. Historically, this act of establishment signifies a collective commitment to remember and honor God's deliverance, emphasizing the importance of communal memory in Jewish tradition.

and agreed upon themselves
The phrase "agreed upon" comes from the Hebrew "קִבֵּל" (qibel), meaning to accept or receive. This indicates a mutual consensus among the Jews, highlighting the unity and shared purpose within the community. It underscores the importance of collective decision-making in maintaining cultural and religious practices, a theme prevalent throughout Jewish history.

and their descendants
The inclusion of "descendants" (Hebrew: "זֶרַע" - zera) emphasizes the transgenerational aspect of the Purim celebration. It reflects the biblical principle of passing down faith and traditions to future generations, ensuring that the memory of God's deliverance remains alive. This mirrors the broader biblical narrative of covenantal continuity from one generation to the next.

and all who join them
This phrase opens the observance to "all who join them," indicating inclusivity. The Hebrew word "נִלְוִים" (nilvim) suggests those who align themselves with the Jewish people, possibly converts or allies. This inclusivity reflects the universal appeal of God's deliverance and the openness of the Jewish community to welcome others into their faith and celebrations.

that they should celebrate
The Hebrew root "עָשָׂה" (asah) for "celebrate" implies action and observance. It is not merely a passive remembrance but an active participation in the festivities. This highlights the importance of joy and gratitude in religious observance, encouraging believers to actively engage in commemorating God's acts of salvation.

the two days without fail
The phrase "without fail" underscores the importance of consistency and faithfulness in observance. The Hebrew "לֹא יַעֲבוֹר" (lo ya'avor) suggests an unbroken tradition, emphasizing the seriousness with which the Jews approached the celebration of Purim. This reflects a broader biblical theme of steadfastness in faith and practice.

according to their written instructions
The reference to "written instructions" (Hebrew: "כְּכָתוּב" - ke-katub) highlights the role of documentation in preserving religious practices. It underscores the importance of Scripture and written records in guiding and maintaining the faith community's traditions, ensuring accuracy and continuity.

and according to their appointed time each year
The phrase "appointed time" (Hebrew: "בְּכָל שָׁנָה וְשָׁנָה" - bechol shanah v'shanah) signifies a divinely ordained schedule, reflecting the biblical concept of sacred time. This annual observance ties the community to a rhythm of remembrance and celebration, reinforcing the cyclical nature of God's faithfulness and the importance of regular, intentional worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jews
The Jewish people who were living in the Persian Empire during the time of Esther. They were the primary recipients of the decree to celebrate the festival of Purim.

2. Descendants
The future generations of Jews who were also bound by this decree to observe the festival of Purim annually.

3. All who joined them
This refers to any non-Jews who aligned themselves with the Jewish people, possibly through conversion or support, and who also committed to observing Purim.

4. Purim
The festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.

5. Regulation and appointed time
The specific guidelines and timing for the celebration of Purim, as established by Mordecai and Esther.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as the Jews committed to remembering their deliverance through Purim, Christians are called to remember God's faithfulness and deliverance in their own lives.

Generational Faithfulness
The commitment to pass down the observance of Purim highlights the importance of teaching future generations about God's works and faithfulness.

Inclusivity in Faith
The inclusion of "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim reflects the openness of God's covenant community to those who choose to align themselves with His people.

The Role of Tradition
While traditions like Purim are important, they should always point back to God's actions and character, rather than becoming empty rituals.

Celebration as Worship
Observing festivals and celebrations can be a form of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and goodness in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

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

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

3. How does the inclusion of "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim challenge us to be more inclusive in our faith communities today?

4. What are some traditions or celebrations in your life that help you remember and celebrate God's work? How can you ensure they remain meaningful?

5. How can the celebration of Purim inspire us to incorporate more intentional times of celebration and worship into our spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The establishment of the Passover as a perpetual observance for the Israelites, similar to how Purim was established as a lasting festival.

Leviticus 23
The listing of the appointed feasts of the Lord, which includes various celebrations that the Israelites were commanded to observe annually.

Psalm 145:4
The importance of one generation commending God's works to another, which is reflected in the commitment to pass down the observance of Purim to future generations.

Romans 11:17
The concept of Gentiles being grafted into the spiritual heritage of Israel, akin to "all who joined them" in the observance of Purim.