Purim is a time to celebrate God's victory over the enemies of the Jews (notably Haman), who had plotted to annihilate them more than 2500 years ago. It is a time to celebrate religious freedom of the Jews. A detailed account of Purim is given in the book of Esther, which tells of how the Jews were miraculously saved from destruction by Haman, a high ranking official in the government of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I of Persia). Haman was not impressed when Mordecai refused to bow down to him, and through the king's power, he plotted to kill all Jews in that kingdom as recorded in Esther 3:8.
"Then Haman said to King Xerxes, 'There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king's laws; it is not in the king's best interest to tolerate them. If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them, and I will give ten thousand talents of silver to the king's administrators for the royal treasury.'" (Esther 3:8-9)
The word Purim means 'drawing of lots' because literally, Haman casted lots so as to came up with the best day to carry out his evil plot against the Jews. The fateful day fell on 13th of Adar (which is the twelfth month in the Jewish calendar).
However, as soon as Mordecai learnt about this verdict, he approached Queen Esther, his cousin, to plead with the king so that the Jews could be spared. She didn't want to face the king blindly, but instead ordered all Jews to enter into a three days fasting to plead with God for their survival and redemption. She also took part in the fasting and on the third day of fasting, she approached her husband, king Ahasuerus. Elohim made her gain to favor in front of the king, and her plight was heard. The miraculous turn of events ended with hanging of Haman on the same gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.
Queen Esther is remembered on this day for her bravery to intercede for her own people. On 14th and 15th of Adar, Jews make merry, exchange gifts and give charity to the less fortunate in their community, as a way of expressing gratitude to God for the victory He gave them over their enemies.
There are a number of lessons we can learn from this story. Most important is the decision by Esther to face the King. It was a brave act that ought to be emulated by each one of us who loves Israel. Just like the way people normally hesitate to take responsibility when faced by a challenging situation, Esther was also hesitant. However, her uncle Mordecai reminded her that it was her ultimate moment as a queen to stand up against the intended harm. This implies that sometimes God elevates us or places us in positions where we are expected to be ready to face the most challenging task so that victory will be attained and consequently, God's name be glorified.
This festival reminds all of us that though there are many evil plots that are created to exterminate the Jewish People; God always intervenes at the time of need to save His people.
Additionally, there are many other instances in history that are well documented, and were carried out by people with an intention of annihilating the people of Israel. Even in today's world, there are many forces that have come out boldly to speak against the Jews and against the sovereignty of the nation of Israel. However, there is no need for the Jews to fear because the promise that was made by God to Abraham still holds as recorded in the book of Genesis "I will bless those who bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you" Genesis 12:3. Israel will continue to make her hope and trust in God stronger, as the number of enemies who are currently threatening her rise.
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who loves you." Psalms 122:6
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