Esther 9:22
As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.
Esther 9:22 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse highlights a pivotal moment in Jewish history when they were delivered from their enemies and their sorrow was turned into joy. It commemorates the victory of the Jewish people over their oppressors, a time when they went from mourning to celebrating. The verse emphasizes the importance of feasting, joy, and sharing with those in need as a way to show gratitude for the blessings received. By sending portions to one another and giving gifts to the poor, the Jews demonstrated their unity and compassion for each other during this time of celebration. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of coming together as a community to share in times of joy and express kindness towards others in need.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Esther is that it reflects the transformation of the Jewish people's fortunes from despair to triumph. The reference to the Jews resting from their enemies and the month being turned from sorrow to joy highlights the theme of God's deliverance and providence throughout the story. The mention of making the days of celebration into a time of feasting and sharing with others underscores the importance of communal celebration and generosity. The act of sending portions to one another and gifts to the poor symbolizes the notion of giving back and spreading joy to those in need, reflecting the values of compassion and solidarity within the community. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in turning situations of sorrow and mourning into occasions for joy and gratitude, as well as emphasizing the importance of unity and compassion in times of celebration.
Esther 9:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
as the days wherein the Jews had rest from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to gladness, and from mourning into a good day; that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.
World English Bible
as the days in which the Jews had rest from their enemies, and the month which was turned to them from sorrow to gladness, and from mourning into a good day; that they should make them days of feasting and gladness, and of sending presents of food to one another, and gifts to the needy.
Douay-Rheims
Because on those days the Jews revenged themselves of their enemies, and their mourning and sorrow were turned into mirth and joy, and that these should be days of feasting and gladness, in which they should send one to another portions of meats, and should give gifts to the poor.
Geneva Bible (1599)
According to the dayes wherein the Iewes rested from their enemies, and the moneth which was turned vnto them from sorowe to ioy, and from mourning into a ioyfull day, to keepe them the dayes of feasting, and ioy, and to sende presents euery man to his neyghbour, and giftes to the poore.