Esther 8:9 - Then the king’s scribes were called at that time, in the third month, which is the month Sivan, on the twenty-third day of the month; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded to the Jews, and to the satraps, and the governors and princes of the provinces which are from India to Ethiopia, one hundred twenty-seven provinces, to every province according to its writing, and to every people in their language, and to the Jews in their writing, and in their language.

Generated Verse: Esther 8:9

What does "Esther 8:9" mean?


This verse, Esther 8:9, is a crucial turning point in the Book of Esther. It details the practical steps taken to counter the previous decree that authorized the destruction of the Jews. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"Then the king’s scribes were called at that time...": This indicates that King Ahasuerus authorized a new royal edict. The king's scribes were official writers and record keepers. Their involvement signifies the importance and legal standing of the new decree.

"...in the third month, which is the month Sivan, on the twenty-third day of the month...": This provides a specific date. The events occur on the 23rd day of Sivan. Considering the previous decree was issued in the first month, Nisan, this gives the Jews time to prepare for their defense.

"...and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded to the Jews...": Mordecai, now holding a position of authority, dictates the content of the new decree. The previous decree against the Jews had come from Haman. This new decree is issued by the King but is orchestrated by Mordecai, who is acting in the best interest of the Jews.

"...and to the satraps, and the governors and princes of the provinces which are from India to Ethiopia, one hundred twenty-seven provinces...": This specifies the target audience of the new decree. It extends to all levels of government in the vast Persian Empire, from the highest officials (satraps) to regional governors and local princes. The mention of "India to Ethiopia" emphasizes the immense geographical scope of the empire and the reach of the king's decrees. The previous decree also reached all of these areas.

"...to every province according to its writing, and to every people in their language, and to the Jews in their writing, and in their language.": This highlights the care taken to ensure the decree was understood by everyone. Copies were made in the local script and languages used in each province, as well as specifically to the Jews in their own Hebrew script and language. This would prevent any claims of ignorance and underscore the decree's importance.

In summary, Esther 8:9 describes the official writing and dissemination of a new decree orchestrated by Mordecai. This decree aimed to counteract the previous edict of Haman and was sent to every region of the vast Persian Empire in the local languages and scripts to ensure its universal understanding. This verse sets the stage for the events leading to the Jews' ability to defend themselves.

In essence, this verse is a turning point, showing the Jews gaining power and having the means to potentially overturn the impending disaster. The details emphasize the official nature of the new decree and the importance of communication in a diverse and vast empire.