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Book of Esther - Chapter 9 - Verse 21

9:21
To stablish this among them, that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, yearly,

Meaning

As explained in this verse, the Jewish holiday of Purim is established to be celebrated annually on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar. This holiday commemorates the miraculous events described in the Book of Esther, when the Jewish people were saved from a plot to destroy them. The observance of Purim includes reading the Book of Esther, giving gifts of food to friends and neighbors, donating to the poor, and feasting in celebration of the deliverance of the Jewish people. The specific dates of the fourteenth and fifteenth days of Adar were chosen based on the events described in the Book of Esther, when the Jews defeated their enemies and were granted the right to defend themselves. By commemorating these days annually, Jews around the world remember the importance of standing up against persecution and celebrating the triumph of good over evil.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the instruction is given to establish the observance of the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month Adar as a yearly tradition. The word "stablish" implies a strong emphasis on making this practice firm and unwavering among the people. The theological interpretation of this verse points to the importance of maintaining religious traditions and observances as a way to remember and honor key events in the history of a community or faith. Keeping to a specific date and time for religious observances can serve as a way to pass down teachings and maintain a sense of identity and connection to the past. The word study of "Adar" reveals that this month holds significance in the Jewish calendar as the month in which the holiday of Purim is celebrated. Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to destroy them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. By keeping the fourteenth and fifteenth days of Adar, the people are reminded of their history and faith, and are encouraged to celebrate and remember the miracles and victories granted to them by God.

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