Esther 9:18

Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)

وَٱلْيَهُودُ ٱلَّذِينَ فِي شُوشَنَ ٱجْتَمَعُوا فِي ٱلثَّالِثِ عَشَرَ وَٱلرَّابِعِ عَشَرَ مِنْهُ، وَٱسْتَرَاحُوا فِي ٱلْخَامِسِ عَشَرَ وَجَعَلُوهُ يَوْمَ شُرْبٍ وَفَرَحٍ.

What Does This Mean?

The Jews in Shushan gathered on the thirteenth and fourteenth days of the month and rested on the fifteenth day, celebrating with feasting and joy. It describes the observance of Purim, a festival commemorating their deliverance from Haman's plot.

Explained for Children

Imagine it's your birthday. You celebrate for two days and on the third day, you relax and have a big party with your friends. That's what the Jews in Shushan did after they were saved from danger.

Historical Background

The Book of Esther was likely compiled by an author in the 4th century BCE. It was written to explain the origins of the Jewish festival of Purim and to affirm the importance of this festival to the Persian Jews.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse can be seen as a reminder to celebrate deliverance and rest after facing hardship. For example, a community recovering from a natural disaster might organize a festival to mark their survival and find joy in their resilience.

Topics

• celebration
• deliverance
• resilience
• rest
• feast
• joy

Related Verses

• Exodus 13:1-16
• Joshua 6:25
• 1 Corinthians 5:8
• Psalm 126:5-6
• Ecclesiastes 3:1

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Purim?

Purim is a Jewish festival that celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.

Why did the Jews rest on the fifteenth day?

The fifteenth day was a day of rest and celebration, marking the end of their ordeal and the beginning of their joyous observance of Purim.

How is Purim celebrated today?

Today, Purim is celebrated by reading the Book of Esther, giving gifts of food to friends, and charitable donations to the poor, all while enjoying festive meals.

Is Purim only celebrated in Shushan?

While the observance is described for Shushan, Purim is now celebrated by Jews worldwide, with some cities following a two-day observance tradition.