Esther 9:22 - as the days in which the Jews had rest from their enemies, and the month which was turned to them from sorrow to gladness, and from mourning into a good day; that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, and of sending presents of food to one another, and gifts to the needy.

Generated Verse: Esther 9:22

What does "Esther 9:22" mean?


This verse from Esther 9:22 is a crucial part of the establishment of Purim, a Jewish holiday. It describes the reason for the celebration and outlines the practices that would become central to it. Let's break down its meaning:

"As the days in which the Jews had rest from their enemies...": This refers to the events leading up to Purim, as described in the Book of Esther. Haman, a high-ranking official in the Persian empire, plotted to annihilate all the Jews. Mordecai and Esther, Jewish individuals in positions of influence, intervened and ultimately foiled Haman's plan. The "rest from their enemies" signifies the relief and safety the Jews experienced after being delivered from this existential threat.

"...and the month which was turned to them from sorrow to gladness, and from mourning into a good day...": The events of the Purim story dramatically reversed the Jews' fortunes. Initially, they were facing imminent destruction, a time of great sorrow and mourning. However, the change in the king's decree, the execution of Haman, and the Jews' victory over their enemies transformed that period of despair into one of joy, celebration, and "good days."

"...that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, and of sending presents of food to one another, and gifts to the needy.": This is the core of the commandment to celebrate Purim. The verse instructs the Jews to commemorate their deliverance by:

Feasting and gladness: To celebrate and rejoice in their survival and freedom.
Sending presents of food to one another (Mishloach Manot): Sharing the joy and abundance with friends and neighbors, strengthening community bonds. The Hebrew term used here is "mishloach manot."
Gifts to the needy (Matanot La'evyonim): Practicing charity and ensuring that even the less fortunate could partake in the celebration. This highlights the themes of compassion and social responsibility associated with Purim. The Hebrew term used here is "matanot la'evyonim."

In Summary:

The verse explains that Purim is a holiday established to remember and celebrate the Jews' deliverance from their enemies in ancient Persia. The celebration is characterized by feasting, rejoicing, sending gifts of food to friends and neighbors, and giving charity to the poor. It is a time to remember God's salvation, strengthen community bonds, and practice acts of kindness.