Memorials in the Bible
A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars.
God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at four of them.
3) PURIM
And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed. (Esther 9:28)
Definition and Origin
Purim is a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The name “Purim” is derived from the word “pur,” meaning “lot,” as Haman, the antagonist in the account, cast lots to determine the day on which he would execute his plan against the Jews (Esther 3:7).
Biblical Account
The narrative of Purim is found in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Ketuvim, or Writings, in the Hebrew Bible. The account unfolds during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king’s court, harbored a deep hatred for the Jewish people, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devised a scheme to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire.
Esther, a Jewish woman who had become queen, was urged by her cousin Mordecai to intercede with the king on behalf of her people. Despite the risk to her own life, Esther approached the king and revealed Haman’s plot. The king, moved by Esther’s plea and angered by Haman’s treachery, ordered Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).
Following Haman’s downfall, the king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. On the appointed day, the Jews triumphed over those who sought their harm, and the threat was averted (Esther 9:1-2).
Observance
Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, with the 15th observed in walled cities like Jerusalem, known as Shushan Purim.
Theological Significance
From a theological perspective, Purim underscores themes of divine providence and deliverance. Although God’s name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is seen in the orchestration of events leading to the salvation of His people. The festival serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to protect and preserve His chosen people against seemingly insurmountable odds.
Purim also highlights the courage and faith of individuals like Esther and Mordecai, who played pivotal roles in the deliverance of their people. Their actions exemplify the importance of standing firm in faith and righteousness, even in the face of great danger. (https://biblehub.com/topical/p/purim.htm)
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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