What Was Purim in the Bible?
Purim is a Jewish festival celebrated annually to commemorate the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther in the Bible. The name Purim comes from the Hebrew word פּוּר (pur), which means “lot,” referring to the casting of lots by Haman to determine the day on which the Jews would be destroyed.
The Biblical Account of Purim
Setting the Scene
The story of Purim is set during the time of the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I). It revolves around Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai. Haman, the king’s advisor, harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. In his rage, Haman devised a plan to exterminate all the Jews in the empire.
The Plot and Deliverance
Haman cast lots (pur) to determine the day on which the Jews would be annihilated and secured the king’s approval for his plan. However, through a series of divinely orchestrated events, Esther, who had become queen, and Mordecai managed to thwart Haman’s plan. Esther courageously revealed her Jewish identity to the king and exposed Haman’s plot, leading to Haman’s execution and the issuance of a royal decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves.
Esther 9:20-22 (NIV): “Mordecai recorded these events, and he sent letters to all the Jews throughout the provinces of King Xerxes, near and far, to have them celebrate annually the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.”
Observance of Purim
Reading the Book of Esther
One of the central observances of Purim is the public reading of the Book of Esther (the Megillah). This is done twice, once on the evening of Purim and again the following morning. The reading recounts the dramatic events and miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people.
Giving to the Poor and Exchanging Gifts
Purim is marked by acts of charity and kindness. Giving gifts of food to friends (mishloach manot) and donating to the poor (matanot la’evyonim) are integral parts of the celebration, reflecting the communal spirit and the importance of helping those in need.
Feasting and Celebration
Purim is a time of joy and celebration. Feasting, wearing costumes, and engaging in festive activities are common, as the Jewish people remember their deliverance from destruction and rejoice in God’s faithfulness.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
God’s Sovereignty and Providence
The story of Purim is a powerful testament to God’s sovereignty and providence. Despite the dire circumstances, God orchestrated events to protect and deliver His people. This serves as a reminder to modern Christians that God is in control of all situations, even when His presence is not immediately apparent. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Courage and Faith
Esther’s bravery in approaching the king and revealing her identity is a profound example of courage and faith. Her willingness to risk her life for the sake of her people highlights the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of great personal risk. Modern Christians are encouraged to act with similar courage and faith, trusting in God’s protection and guidance. Joshua 1:9 exhorts, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The Power of Community
The observance of Purim, with its emphasis on communal celebration, giving, and support, underscores the importance of community. The acts of charity and sharing reflect the biblical call to love and support one another. Christians are reminded of the value of community and the importance of caring for each other, as expressed in Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness
Purim is a celebration of God’s faithfulness to His people. The story demonstrates that God does not abandon His children, even in the most perilous times. This assurance of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness is a source of comfort and strength for believers today. Lamentations 3:22-23 declares, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Divine Protection
The deliverance of the Jewish people during Purim illustrates God’s protective nature. Just as He protected the Jews from annihilation, God continues to watch over and protect His people today. Psalm 121:7-8 reassures us, “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Christ as Our Deliverer
The deliverance celebrated during Purim foreshadows the ultimate deliverance provided by Jesus Christ. Just as Esther interceded for her people, Jesus intercedes for humanity, offering salvation and deliverance from sin and eternal death. Hebrews 7:25 states, “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Celebrating Salvation
The joy and celebration of Purim can be seen as a precursor to the joy of salvation in Christ. Christians celebrate the deliverance from sin and death through Jesus, rejoicing in the freedom and new life He provides. John 8:36 declares, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Conclusion
Purim, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar, commemorates the miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people from destruction as recorded in the Book of Esther. The festival highlights God’s sovereignty, faithfulness, and providence. For modern Christians, the lessons from Purim encourage trust in God’s control, the importance of courage and faith, and the value of community. The celebration of Purim also points to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Intercessor. Through Purim, believers are reminded of the joy of salvation and the steadfast love and protection of God.