The Jews' victory, as recorded in the Book of Esther, is a significant event in biblical history that highlights God's providence and the deliverance of His people from their enemies. This event is celebrated annually in the Jewish festival of Purim.

Historical Context

The narrative of the Jews' victory is set during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia, who ruled from 486 to 465 BC. The Jewish people were living in exile throughout the Persian Empire, following the Babylonian captivity. The account unfolds in the royal city of Susa, where Esther, a Jewish woman, becomes queen.

The Threat

The Jews faced annihilation due to the schemes of Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official in King Xerxes' court. Haman harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, Esther's cousin and guardian, who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman convinced King Xerxes to issue a decree to destroy all the Jews in the empire on a single day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar (Esther 3:13).

Esther's Intervention

Mordecai urged Esther to use her position as queen to intercede for her people. Despite the risk of approaching the king unsummoned, which could result in death, Esther courageously decided to act. She called for a three-day fast among the Jews and then approached the king, inviting him and Haman to a banquet (Esther 4:16).

During the second banquet, Esther revealed her Jewish identity and exposed Haman's plot to annihilate her people. King Xerxes, enraged by Haman's treachery, ordered Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

The Jews' Victory

Following Haman's execution, Esther and Mordecai were given authority to issue a new decree. This decree allowed the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies on the appointed day of attack. "The king's edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves, to destroy, kill, and annihilate any armed force of any nationality or province that might attack them and their women and children, and to plunder the property of their enemies" (Esther 8:11).

On the thirteenth day of Adar, the Jews successfully defended themselves, defeating their adversaries. In Susa alone, they killed 500 men, including Haman's ten sons. The following day, they rested and celebrated their deliverance (Esther 9:16-17).

The Festival of Purim

The victory of the Jews led to the establishment of the Feast of Purim, a time of feasting, joy, and giving gifts to one another and to the poor. Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews, instructing them to celebrate annually on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of Adar. "These days should be remembered and celebrated by every generation, family, province, and city, so that these days of Purim should never fail to be celebrated by the Jews, nor should the memory of them die out among their descendants" (Esther 9:28).

Theological Significance

The Jews' victory in the Book of Esther is a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Though His name is not mentioned in the text, His providential care is evident throughout the narrative. The deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot underscores the theme of divine protection and the reversal of fortunes for those who trust in God. This event serves as a reminder of God's enduring covenant with His people and His ability to work through individuals to accomplish His purposes.