Esther 9:29-32
Words of Peace and Truth
Read the passage
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.
Berean Standard Bible
Read aloud
Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, writes with Mordecai to confirm the letter about Purim. The orphan introduced earlier now acts with royal authority, and Mordecai is still identified as the Jew. Their positions have changed without erasing their people or family history.
And Mordecai sent letters with words of peace and truth to all the Jews in the 127 provinces of the kingdom of Xerxes.
Earlier royal letters carried a threat to destroy the Jews. These letters confirm the days on which their deliverance will be remembered. Peace and truth are fitting words for a people who have passed through such danger.
The passage connects the establishment of Purim with the commitments made concerning fasting and lamentation. The remembrance of joy belongs alongside the memory of distress. The joyful outcome does not erase what the people endured before it.
Esther's decree confirms the regulations, and they are written into the record. A written commitment can carry the memory beyond those who lived through the events. Later generations will have more than a celebration with no explanation: they can learn what their people endured and why they rejoice.
Questions
1 Who confirms the letter concerning Purim?
AnswerQueen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew. They write with full authority.
2 How are Mordecai's letters described?
AnswerAs carrying words of peace and truth to the Jews in all 127 provinces.
3 What earlier commitments are mentioned alongside Purim?
AnswerCommitments concerning fasting and lamentation. The account connects celebration with the distress remembered by the people.
4 What happens to Esther's regulations?
AnswerHer decree confirms them, and they are written into the record so the observance has a lasting account.
What This Means for Us
Family memories can include gratitude and sorrow without forcing either one. When you tell a story from a difficult time, be truthful and considerate of those it affects. Let people choose what they are ready to share. A written note or a quiet conversation can help the next generation understand why a day matters.
Prayer
Father, help us speak with peace and truth about our past. Give comfort where memories still hurt and gratitude for the care that carried us through. Amen.