Esther 9:29

Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim.

Esther 9:29 (KJV)

Context

This verse closes the book of Esther, after the Jews had defended themselves from their enemies. Esther the queen and Mordecai the Jew wrote to confirm the second letter of Purim, the festival that remembers their deliverance. This second letter was likely written to reinforce the first, because some Jews were slow to observe the festival.

Meaning

Esther, called the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai acted together. Their joint writing combined royal authority with Jewish leadership. The phrase “with all authority” shows that their words carried binding weight. Esther’s position gave the decree royal force, while Mordecai’s role connected it to the community. The second letter reinforced the first, making the observance a permanent duty for the Jewish people.

Biblical connections

The earlier letter in Esther 9:20-22 first instructed the Jews to celebrate Purim. This second letter added Esther’s royal sanction, making the observance a binding obligation. The authority here is human and civil, yet it preserves the memory of God’s providential care for His people. The festival of Purim is a joyous celebration of survival and deliverance.

Application

Esther and Mordecai did not leave gratitude to chance. They wrote clear instructions and confirmed them with authority. Believers can follow this example by intentionally remembering God’s saving acts and passing that remembrance to future generations through written records, family traditions, and communal worship. Written confirmation helps ensure that important instructions are not forgotten.

Reflection

This verse shows how human leadership can give lasting shape to gratitude. When leaders work together for the spiritual good of the people, they help ensure that God’s faithfulness is not forgotten. Purim became a lasting witness to deliverance, reminding every generation that God works through faithful people to save His own.