Esther 9:32
And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book.
Esther 9:32 (KJV)
Context
The book of Esther is set in the Persian Empire during the Jewish exile. Esther, a Jewish woman, becomes queen after winning a royal contest. Through a series of events, she discovers a plot by Haman to annihilate the Jewish people. With the help of her cousin Mordecai and God’s providence, she courageously intervenes and saves her people.
Esther 9:32 is the concluding statement of the book. After the Jews successfully defended themselves against their enemies, Esther issues a decree confirming the celebration of Purim. This decree is then written in a book, emphasizing its significance and ensuring its remembrance for future generations. The verse also shows that Esther, along with Mordecai, had written with all authority to confirm a second letter concerning Purim, and letters were sent to all Jews in the 127 provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus with words of peace and truth.
Meaning
The phrase “the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim” shows that Esther used her royal authority to make the celebration official. The word “confirmed” means to establish or make firm. Esther’s decree gave lasting legal standing to the observance of Purim, so that it would not be forgotten or neglected.
The verse also says “it was written in the book.” This likely refers to the book of Esther itself, or possibly to the public records of the Persian kingdom, or to a separate book that is now lost. Writing the decree down made it permanent and accessible. This act ensured that future generations would know the story of their deliverance and continue the celebration. The permanence of the written record also highlights the importance of preserving God’s faithful acts for those who come after us.
Biblical connections
The practice of writing down God’s mighty acts appears elsewhere in Scripture. For example, in Exodus 17:14, the Lord tells Moses to write a memorial of the victory over Amalek. Similarly, Esther’s written decree serves as a lasting memorial of God’s deliverance. Both passages show the value of recording God’s faithfulness so that His people can remember and teach it to their children. This principle of confirming matters in writing for the benefit of future generations is seen throughout the Bible, reminding us that God’s works deserve to be remembered and proclaimed.
Application
Esther’s example teaches us to confirm and continue the remembrance of significant events in our lives and communities. We can establish traditions that commemorate God’s faithfulness, protection, or deliverance. These traditions help us and others remember God’s goodness.
We can also create memorials in our own lives. Journaling, keeping a prayer diary, or setting up physical reminders in our homes can help us remember God’s work. Such records become a testimony for future generations.
Sharing our testimony is another way to apply this verse. When we tell others how God has worked in our lives, we encourage and strengthen their faith. Written testimonies can reach even more people and last longer.
Finally, we should use our influence wisely. Esther, as queen, had authority and used it for righteous purposes. In our families, workplaces, and communities, we can use our positions to promote justice, compassion, and obedience to God’s will. Just as Esther’s decree confirmed the celebration of Purim, we can take deliberate steps to ensure that God’s saving acts are not forgotten.
Reflection
The book of Esther does not mention God by name, yet His providence is evident throughout. Esther’s decree and the written record remind us that God works through human actions and decisions. As we remember His deliverance, we are called to pass on our testimonies and keep His faithfulness alive in our hearts and in our communities. The establishment of Purim as a perpetual observance underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating God’s deliverance, and it points us to the ultimate deliverance we have in Christ.
