Esther 9:31
Esther 9:31 in Multiple Translations
in order to confirm these days of Purim at their appointed time, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established them and had committed themselves and their descendants to the times of fasting and lamentation.
To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed, according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.
to confirm these days of Purim in their appointed times, according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had ordained for themselves and for their seed, in the matter of the fastings and their cry.
Giving the force of law to these days of Purim at their fixed times, as they had been ordered by Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen, and in keeping with the rules they had made for themselves and their seed, in connection with their time of going without food and their cry for help.
They established these days of Purim at their given time as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had ordered, committing themselves and their descendants to the times of fasting and mourning.
To confirme these dayes of Purim, according to their seasons, as Mordecai the Iewe and Ester the Queene had appointed them, and as they had promised for them selues and for their seede with fasting and prayer.
to establish these days of Purim, in their seasons, as Mordecai the Jew hath established on them, and Esther the queen, and as they had established on themselves, and on their seed — matters of the fastings, and of their cry.
to confirm these days of Purim in their appointed times, as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had decreed, and as they had imposed upon themselves and their descendants in the matter of the fastings and their mourning.
To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed , according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.
And observe the days of lots, and celebrate them with joy in their proper time: as Mardochai and Esther had appointed, and they undertook them to be observed by themselves and by their seed, fasts, and cries, and the days of lots,
Berean Amplified Bible — Esther 9:31
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Esther 9:31 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לְ/קַיֵּ֡ם
אֵת
יְמֵי֩
הַ/פֻּרִ֨ים
הָ/אֵ֜לֶּה
בִּ/זְמַנֵּי/הֶ֗ם
כַּ/אֲשֶׁר֩
קִיַּ֨ם
עֲלֵי/הֶ֜ם
מָרְדֳּכַ֤י
הַ/יְּהוּדִי֙
וְ/אֶסְתֵּ֣ר
הַ/מַּלְכָּ֔ה
וְ/כַ/אֲשֶׁ֛ר
קִיְּמ֥וּ
עַל
נַפְשָׁ֖/ם
וְ/עַל
זַרְעָ֑/ם
דִּבְרֵ֥י
הַ/צֹּמ֖וֹת
וְ/זַעֲקָתָֽ/ם
לְ/קַיֵּ֡ם
qûwm
H6965
-kamai
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
אֵת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
יְמֵי֩
yôwm
H3117
day
N-mp
הַ/פֻּרִ֨ים
Pûwr
H6332
Purim
Art | N-proper
הָ/אֵ֜לֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
these
Art | Pron
בִּ/זְמַנֵּי/הֶ֗ם
zᵉmân
H2165
time
Prep | N-mp | Suff
כַּ/אֲשֶׁר֩
ʼăsher
H834
which
Prep | Rel
קִיַּ֨ם
qûwm
H6965
-kamai
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
עֲלֵי/הֶ֜ם
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
מָרְדֳּכַ֤י
Mordᵉkay
H4782
Mordecai
N-proper
הַ/יְּהוּדִי֙
Yᵉhûwdîy
H3064
of Judah
Art | Ngmsa
וְ/אֶסְתֵּ֣ר
ʼEçtêr
H635
Esther
Conj | N-proper
הַ/מַּלְכָּ֔ה
malkâh
H4436
queen
Art | N-fs
וְ/כַ/אֲשֶׁ֛ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Conj | Prep | Rel
קִיְּמ֥וּ
qûwm
H6965
-kamai
V-Piel-Perf-3cp
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
נַפְשָׁ֖/ם
nephesh
H5315
soul
N-cs | Suff
וְ/עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Conj | Prep
זַרְעָ֑/ם
zeraʻ
H2233
seed
N-ms | Suff
דִּבְרֵ֥י
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
N-mp
הַ/צֹּמ֖וֹת
tsôwm
H6685
fast
Art | N-mp
וְ/זַעֲקָתָֽ/ם
zaʻaq
H2201
outcry
Conj | N-fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Esther 9:31
לְ/קַיֵּ֡ם
qûwm
H6965
"-kamai"
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.
Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai
Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.
אֵת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
יְמֵי֩
yôwm
H3117
"day"
N-mp
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
הַ/פֻּרִ֨ים
Pûwr
H6332
"Purim"
Art | N-proper
Purim is a special feast that celebrates the Jews' deliverance from Haman's destruction through queen Esther's actions. The word means lot or piece, referring to the broken piece used to cast lots, and is often translated as Pur or Purim in the KJV Bible.
Definition: § Pur or Purim = "lot" or "piece" means: lot a special feast among the post-exilic Jews, to celebrate their deliverance from Haman's destruction through queen Esther's heroic actions
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: Pur, Purim. See also: Esther 3:7; Esther 9:28; Esther 9:32.
הָ/אֵ֜לֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
"these"
Art | Pron
This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.
Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)
Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.
בִּ/זְמַנֵּי/הֶ֗ם
zᵉmân
H2165
"time"
Prep | N-mp | Suff
This word refers to a specific time or occasion, like a scheduled event. It describes a set time for something to happen. The KJV translates it as 'season, time'.
Definition: a set time, appointed time, time Aramaic equivalent: ze.man (זְמַן "time" H2166)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: season, time. See also: Nehemiah 2:6; Esther 9:31; Ecclesiastes 3:1.
כַּ/אֲשֶׁר֩
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Prep | Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
קִיַּ֨ם
qûwm
H6965
"-kamai"
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.
Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai
Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.
עֲלֵי/הֶ֜ם
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
מָרְדֳּכַ֤י
Mordᵉkay
H4782
"Mordecai"
N-proper
Mordecai was a brave Israelite who lived during the Exile and Return, and is known for saving the Jews from Haman's plot with Queen Esther's help. He's also the cousin and adoptive father of Esther.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Est.2.5; son of: Jair (H2971J) § Mordecai = "little man" or "worshipper of Mars" 1) cousin and adoptive father of queen Esther; son of Jair of the tribe of Benjamin; deliverer under Divine providence of the children of Israel from the destruction plotted by Haman the chief minister of Ahasuerus; institutor of the feast of Purim 2) a Jew who returned from exile with Zerubbabel
Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: Mordecai. See also: Ezra 2:2; Esther 4:17; Esther 10:3.
הַ/יְּהוּדִי֙
Yᵉhûwdîy
H3064
"of Judah"
Art | Ngmsa
This term refers to people from the tribe of Judah, including Judah himself, who was the son of Israel and Leah. It is used to describe the descendants of Judah, who are also known as Jews.
Definition: People descended from Judah, living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.35; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); married to Bath-shua (H1323I) and Tamar (H8559); father of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209), Shelah (H7956), Perez (H6557) and Zerah (H2226I) Group of ye.hu.dah (יְהוּדָה "Judah" H3063) § Jew
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: Jew. See also: 2 Kings 16:6; Esther 8:17; Jeremiah 32:12.
וְ/אֶסְתֵּ֣ר
ʼEçtêr
H635
"Esther"
Conj | N-proper
Esther was a brave Jewish woman who became queen of Persia, as told in the book of Esther. She was adopted by her cousin Mordecai and later helped save the Jewish people from persecution.
Definition: A woman living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Est.2.7; daughter of: Abihail (H0032K); also called Hadassah at Est.2.7; Also named: ha.das.sah (הֲדַסָּה "Hadassah" H1919) § Esther = "star" the queen of Persia, heroine of the book of Esther-daughter of Abihail, cousin and adopted daughter of Mordecai, of the tribe of Benjamin, made queen by king Ahasuerus to replace divorced queen, Vashti.
Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: Esther. See also: Esther 2:7; Esther 5:4; Esther 9:32.
הַ/מַּלְכָּ֔ה
malkâh
H4436
"queen"
Art | N-fs
A queen is a female ruler of a kingdom, like the Queen of Sheba who visited Solomon. The word refers to a woman with royal authority and power. It is used in the Bible to describe female monarchs.
Definition: queen Aramaic equivalent: mal.kah (מַלְכָּה "queen" H4433)
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: queen. See also: 1 Kings 10:1; Esther 5:2; Song of Solomon 6:9.
וְ/כַ/אֲשֶׁ֛ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Conj | Prep | Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
קִיְּמ֥וּ
qûwm
H6965
"-kamai"
V-Piel-Perf-3cp
Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.
Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai
Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
נַפְשָׁ֖/ם
nephesh
H5315
"soul"
N-cs | Suff
The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.
Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.
וְ/עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
זַרְעָ֑/ם
zeraʻ
H2233
"seed"
N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means seed or offspring, like in Genesis where God promises Abraham many descendants. It can also mean a plant or sowing time, as in Isaiah 55:10. This concept is central to God's plan for humanity.
Definition: : seed/sowing 1) seed, sowing, offspring 1a) a sowing 1b) seed 1c) semen virile 1d) offspring, descendants, posterity, children 1e) of moral quality 1e1) a practitioner of righteousness (fig.) 1f) sowing time (by meton)
Usage: Occurs in 205 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] carnally, child, fruitful, seed(-time), sowing-time. See also: Genesis 1:11; 1 Samuel 1:11; Psalms 18:51.
דִּבְרֵ֥י
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
N-mp
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
הַ/צֹּמ֖וֹת
tsôwm
H6685
"fast"
Art | N-mp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fast or go without food, often for spiritual reasons. It appears in various forms, such as fasting or a fast. This concept is seen in the lives of prophets and leaders like Moses and Elijah.
Definition: fast, fasting
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: fast(-ing). See also: 2 Samuel 12:16; Isaiah 58:3; Psalms 35:13.
וְ/זַעֲקָתָֽ/ם
zaʻaq
H2201
"outcry"
Conj | N-fs | Suff
This Hebrew word means a loud cry or shriek, often expressing distress, like the outcry in Exodus 2:23. It can also describe a clamor or cry for help. In the Bible, it appears in various forms, such as crying out to God.
Definition: 1) cry, outcry 1a) outcry 1b) cry of distress 1c) outcry, clamour
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: cry(-ing). See also: Genesis 18:20; Isaiah 15:8; Proverbs 21:13.
Study Notes — Esther 9:31
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Esther 9:31 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Esther 9:31
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Esther 9:31
- Trapp's Commentary on Esther 9:31
- Ellicott's Commentary on Esther 9:31
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Esther 9:31
- Cambridge Bible on Esther 9:31
- Barnes' Notes on Esther 9:31
- Whedon's Commentary on Esther 9:31
- Sermons on Esther 9:31
Context — The Feast of Purim Instituted
29So Queen Esther daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim.
30And Mordecai sent letters with words of peace and truth to all the Jews in the 127 provinces of the kingdom of Xerxes,
31in order to confirm these days of Purim at their appointed time, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established them and had committed themselves and their descendants to the times of fasting and lamentation.
32So Esther’s decree confirmed these regulations about Purim, which were written into the record.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Esther 4:3 | In every province to which the king’s command and edict came, there was great mourning among the Jews. They fasted, wept, and lamented, and many lay in sackcloth and ashes. |
| 2 | Esther 4:16 | “Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day, and I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish! ” |
| 3 | Jonah 3:2–9 | “Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message that I give you.” This time Jonah got up and went to Nineveh, in accordance with the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, requiring a three-day journey. On the first day of his journey, Jonah set out into the city and proclaimed, “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned!” And the Ninevites believed God. They proclaimed a fast and dressed in sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least. When word reached the king of Nineveh, he got up from his throne, took off his royal robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. Then he issued a proclamation in Nineveh: “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let no man or beast, herd or flock, taste anything at all. They must not eat or drink. Furthermore, let both man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and have everyone call out earnestly to God. Let each one turn from his evil ways and from the violence in his hands. Who knows? God may turn and relent; He may turn from His fierce anger, so that we will not perish.” |
Esther 9:31 Summary
Esther 9:31 shows us that Mordecai and Esther wanted to make sure that the Jewish people would always remember how God saved them from harm, just like God saved the Israelites from slavery in Exodus 14:13-14. They established the days of Purim as a time to celebrate and remember God's deliverance, and they included fasting and lamentation to acknowledge the hardships they endured. This reminds us of the importance of remembering God's acts of love and care for us, as seen in Psalm 107:1, and passing down spiritual values to future generations, as emphasized in Psalm 78:4. By doing so, we can honor God and express our gratitude for His mercy and providence in our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Mordecai and Esther establishing the days of Purim?
The establishment of Purim by Mordecai and Esther, as seen in Esther 9:31, serves as a reminder of God's providence and deliverance, similar to the way God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Exodus 14:13-14, and it was meant to be a lasting tradition for the Jewish people to commemorate God's intervention on their behalf, as written in Esther 9:28.
Why did Mordecai and Esther include fasting and lamentation in the celebration of Purim?
The inclusion of fasting and lamentation in the celebration of Purim, as mentioned in Esther 9:31, acknowledges the suffering and hardships that the Jewish people endured, and it humbles them before God, recognizing His sovereignty and mercy, as seen in Joel 2:12-13, where God calls His people to repentance and fasting.
How does this verse relate to the concept of remembrance in the Bible?
This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering God's acts of deliverance, as seen in Esther 9:31, which is a common theme throughout the Bible, such as in Deuteronomy 8:2, where God reminds the Israelites to remember His provision and care for them in the wilderness.
What can we learn from Mordecai and Esther's commitment to their descendants?
Mordecai and Esther's commitment to their descendants, as seen in Esther 9:31, demonstrates the importance of passing down spiritual values and traditions to future generations, as emphasized in Psalm 78:4, where the psalmist writes about telling the next generation about God's mighty deeds.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can commemorate God's deliverance in my own life, just as the Jewish people celebrated Purim?
- How can I apply the principles of humility and remembrance, as seen in Esther 9:31, to my daily walk with God?
- What are some spiritual traditions or values that I can pass down to my own family or community, just as Mordecai and Esther did?
- In what ways can I balance celebration and remembrance, as seen in the celebration of Purim, in my own life and walk with God?
Gill's Exposition on Esther 9:31
To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed,.... The fourteenth and fifteenth of Adar: according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them; in the letters written and
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Esther 9:31
For or about those great and overwhelming calamities which were decreed to all the Jews, and for the removing of which, not only Esther, and the Jews in Shushan, but all other Jews in all places, as soon as they heard those dismal tidings, did doubtless according to the precepts of Scripture, and the constant practice of their godly predecessors in all ages, fly to that last and only refuge of seeking to God by fasting, and earnest prayers, and strong cries unto God; which God was pleased graciously, to hear, and in answer thereunto to give them this amazing deliverance. And this was that which they were now to remember, to wit, the greatness of their danger, and of their rescue from it. And accordingly the Jews use to observe the first of those days with fasting, and crying, and other expressions of vehement grief and fear, and the latter with feasting, and thanksgiving, and all demonstrations of joy and triumph.
Trapp's Commentary on Esther 9:31
Esther 9:31 To confirm these days of Purim in their times [appointed], according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.Ver. 31. To confirm these days of Purim] That they might by no manner of means be neglected, but that, renewing their resolutions and their reasons for the same, they might remain constant and firm and peremptory in well doing, cleaving to God with full purpose of heart, and sitting close unto the Lord without distraction, 1 Corinthians 7:35. And as they had decreed for themselves] Heb. For their souls; for the soul is the man, and the greatest thing in the least compass is a good mind in a man’ s body. The matters of the fastings and their cry] Heb. The words of fasting, &c., that is, the vows they then uttered when they fasted and cried; that, if God would hear and help them, they would not fail to praise him in all best manner. Now, therefore, sith the vows of God were upon them, they should by keeping these days offer unto him thanksgiving, and pay their vows unto the Most High. Some think that the fasting and crying here mentioned referreth to those in Zechariah, Zechariah 7:5, in remembrance of the desolation of Jerusalem; that, as they fasted then, so they should feast now (Aben Ezra); God having fulfilled his promise there made, of turning their fasting into feasting, and added, "Therefore love the truth and peace," Zechariah 8:19 : confer Mordecai’ s words of peace and truth, supra, Esther 9:30.
Ellicott's Commentary on Esther 9:31
(31) To confirm . . . enjoined . . . decreed.—The same Hebrew verb stands for the three different English verbs; it is also the stablish of Est 9:21. To fix or settle represents the meaning. The matters of the fastings and their cry.—These words come in rather awkwardly, and hence, and because they are passed over by the LXX., some have doubted their genuineness here. All Hebrew MSS., however, and all the other ancient versions, retain the words, and we must, therefore, suppose that the Jews throughout the empire had instituted fasts and lamentations, in addition to what Mordecai’s letter had enjoined, Thus we may probably connect this with the fast now observed on Adar 13.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Esther 9:31
Verse 31. As they had decreed for themselves and for their seed] There is no mention of their receiving the approbation of any high priest, nor of any authority beyond that of Mordecai and Esther; the king could not join in such a business, as he had nothing to do with the Jewish religion, that not being the religion of the country.
Cambridge Bible on Esther 9:31
31. to confirm] It has been suggested that the former communications from Mordecai were only a recommendation, while this joint letter from him and Esther was intended to render the matter obligatory. Against such a view, however, is the fact that the word in the original here rendered ‘to confirm’ is the same as that translated ‘to enjoin’ in Esther 9:21. in the matter of the fastings and their cry] The words may be a gloss. They are not found in the LXX., and the Heb. word translated ‘fastings’ does not occur in this exact form elsewhere.
Barnes' Notes on Esther 9:31
The matters of the fastings and their cry - The Jews of the provinces had added to the form of commemoration proposed by Mordecai certain observances with respect to fasting and wailing, and
Whedon's Commentary on Esther 9:31
31. The matters of the fastings and their cry — Here it incidentally comes out that fasting and lamentation were also to be connected with the observance of Purim.
Sermons on Esther 9:31
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
"Where Are the Faithful Young Men?" by John Piper | This sermon calls for a generation willing to sacrifice their lives for Christ, to live dangerously and be reckless in His service, to prioritize prayer and God's Word above all el |
|
Interview on Fasting by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of fasting and its purpose in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that fasting should flow out of a lifestyle of prayer and a re |
|
Let Compassion Swallow Your Fear by Ray Comfort | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about injuring his arm while running to the house. Despite the pain, he continued to preach the gospel with his son-in-law outsi |
|
(Gospel in the Book of Esther) 2. Esther at the Court for Her People by Roy Hession | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living moment by moment in God's love and receiving life from above. He shares a personal story of a woman who experienced |
|
Awake to Your Purpose by Brian Long | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of committing oneself fully to God's purpose. He uses the example of Esther, who was willing to risk her life for the sake of |
|
Studies in Esther-02 Esther 4 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the darkest moment in the book of Esther, where the people of God were sentenced to death. Despite the silence of God and unanswered prayers |
|
An Unforgettable Illustration - the Power of Prayer and Fasting by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the transformative power of prayer and fasting, illustrating that true desperation for God can be gauged by our willingness to sacrifice meals for spiritua |