Book of Esther - Chapter 9 - Verse 26

After the miraculous deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's evil plot to destroy them, Mordecai and Queen Esther established the holiday of Purim to commemorate their salvation. The name "Purim" is derived from the word "Pur," which means lot, as Haman cast lots to determine the day of the destruction of the Jews. The holiday is a time of great joy and celebration, during which Jews read the Book of Esther, exchange gifts, give to charity, and feast together. The verse emphasizes the importance of remembering and retelling the story of Purim, for all the words of the letter that Mordecai sent out to the Jews contained in it the details of what had transpired and how they had been saved from destruction. It reminds us of the significance of honoring and preserving the memory of our past, while also celebrating the present victory and deliverance from harm.

One theological interpretation of the verse from the Book of Esther where Purim is established after the name of Pur is the recognition of the importance of commemorating significant events in Jewish history. Purim is a celebration of the Jewish people's deliverance from the plot of Haman to destroy them. By naming the holiday after the instrument of their salvation, Pur, the Israelites were choosing to remember and honor God's faithfulness in protecting His people. The word "Purim" is derived from the Hebrew word "pur," which means "lot," referring to the casting of lots by Haman to determine the day of the planned genocide. This word study sheds light on the origins of the holiday and the providential hand of God in overturning the evil plans of the enemy. The verse emphasizes the significance of passing down the story of Purim through the generations, ensuring that all would remember the miraculous intervention of God on behalf of His people. The words of the letter declaring the establishment of Purim serve as a reminder of how God can turn a time of mourning and despair into a time of joy and celebration.