Esther 9:31 – “to establish these days of Purim at their designated times, as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had decreed for them, and as they had established for themselves and their descendants in regard to their times of fasting and lamentation.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Esther 9:31 explains how the Jewish people formalized the annual celebration of Purim, based on the decrees made by Mordecai and Queen Esther. The verse highlights the importance of observing the festival at the designated times each year and maintaining it for future generations. This verse also mentions the practices of fasting and lamentation that were associated with Purim, which served as a reminder of the sorrow and fear the Jewish people experienced before their deliverance.

By establishing Purim as a permanent observance, the Jewish people committed themselves to remembering how God had delivered them from the plot to annihilate them. The inclusion of fasting and lamentation in the verse serves as a reminder of the seriousness of the threat they faced and the depth of the relief they felt when God intervened.

Historical Context

The story of Esther is set in the Persian Empire, during the reign of King Xerxes. The Jewish people, living as a minority throughout the empire, were targeted by Haman, a high-ranking official who sought to destroy them. Through the courage of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai, the plot was uncovered, and the Jews were given the opportunity to defend themselves, leading to their survival and the downfall of their enemies.

Following their victory, Mordecai and Esther instituted the annual celebration of Purim to commemorate their deliverance. The reference to fasting and lamentation in this verse recalls the earlier part of the story when Esther called for a fast as the Jews faced the threat of destruction (Esther 4:16). Now, those earlier moments of sorrow were to be remembered alongside the joy of their deliverance.

Theological Implications

Esther 9:31 highlights several important theological principles. First, it underscores the importance of remembering and commemorating God’s deliverance. The Jews didn’t just celebrate their victory—they institutionalized it, making sure future generations would remember God’s intervention in their darkest hour. This reflects a biblical theme: God’s people are often commanded to remember His works and pass them down to future generations.

Second, this verse emphasizes the role of fasting and lamentation in the life of faith. These practices acknowledge our dependence on God, especially in times of crisis. The Jewish people fasted and prayed when faced with annihilation, demonstrating their humility before God and their trust in His deliverance. Even as they celebrated Purim, they remembered the suffering and fear they had endured, which deepened their gratitude for God’s deliverance.

Literary Analysis

In the structure of the book of Esther, this verse serves to solidify the formal observance of Purim, ensuring that it would become a lasting tradition. The reference to Mordecai and Esther’s decree, as well as the people’s decision to observe these practices, emphasizes the unity of the Jewish people in remembering God’s deliverance.

The inclusion of both joy (celebration) and sorrow (fasting and lamentation) gives the verse a balanced tone, reminding readers that the deliverance from danger is only fully understood when we remember the crisis that preceded it. The verse weaves together remembrance, thanksgiving, and a call to reflect on the darker moments that led to God’s intervention.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 12:14 – “This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord—a lasting ordinance.” Like the Passover, Purim was a lasting reminder of God’s deliverance.
• Joel 2:12 – “‘Even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’” This passage shows how fasting and lamentation are used as acts of repentance and dependence on God, much like in the book of Esther.
• Psalm 30:11 – “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” This reflects the transition from sorrow to joy, which is central to the story of Purim.
• Psalm 145:4 – “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” This underscores the importance of passing down stories of God’s deliverance, just as Purim was meant to remind future generations of God’s intervention.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Esther 9:31 reminds us of the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness in our lives and passing down those stories to future generations. Just as the Jewish people committed to celebrating Purim each year, Christians are called to remember how God has delivered them—most importantly, through Jesus Christ. Celebrations like Easter and Christmas serve a similar purpose, reminding us of the salvation and new life we have received through Christ.

This verse also teaches the value of acknowledging both sorrow and joy in our walk with God. Fasting and lamentation remind us of our dependence on God, especially in times of difficulty, while celebration reminds us of God’s provision and deliverance. Our faith is strengthened when we remember both the trials we have faced and the ways God has brought us through them.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Esther 9:31 reflects God’s love for His people in how He provided for their deliverance and ensured that they would remember it for generations. God doesn’t simply deliver His people from danger; He wants them to remember His faithfulness and share that story with others. His love is seen in how He turns moments of sorrow into occasions for joy, just as the Jews’ time of fasting and lamentation led to the celebration of Purim.

God’s love is also expressed in how He calls His people to observe times of remembrance and reflection. These practices are not meant to be burdensome but are opportunities to reflect on God’s goodness and express gratitude for His intervention in our lives.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Esther 9:31 points forward to the ultimate deliverance that comes through Jesus Christ. Just as the Jewish people were commanded to remember their physical deliverance during Purim, Christians are called to remember the spiritual deliverance Jesus provided through His death and resurrection. Luke 22:19 shows Jesus instructing His followers to “do this in remembrance of me” during the Last Supper, establishing the practice of communion as a way to remember His sacrifice.

The connection between fasting, lamentation, and joy in Esther’s story also mirrors the Christian experience. Jesus himself fasted and prayed before His crucifixion (Matthew 4:1-2) and endured great sorrow, but His resurrection brought ultimate joy and victory. Just as Purim blends sorrow and celebration, the cross and resurrection demonstrate how God brings victory out of suffering.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How do you take time to remember God’s deliverance and faithfulness in your life?
2. What role do fasting and lamentation play in your spiritual life, especially when facing difficult circumstances?
3. How can you share stories of God’s faithfulness with future generations, much like the Jews did with the celebration of Purim?
4. How does the combination of sorrow and joy in this verse challenge you to reflect on both the difficult and joyful moments in your walk with God?
5. How does the story of Purim remind you of the ultimate deliverance that Jesus provides, and how can you celebrate that in your life today?