Read ESTHER 9:5–15

War inevitably results in casualties. The American Revolutionary War left an estimated 25,000 Americans dead and another 25,000 wounded. World War II claimed 405,000 U.S. lives, with an additional 670,000 wounded. Whether winners or losers, war can be costly.

In today’s passage, the Jews dispatched their enemies who had threatened them. In the city of Susa alone, 500 men were killed (vv. 6, 12). With the sanction of Xerxes, the Jews were permitted to eliminate the people who had plotted against them and to ensure their long- term safety. God had ordained and directed the vindication of His people.

Notice a miraculous element in this passage that points to the hand of God. Whereas the Jewish people once feared for their lives, now they were enabled by God to kill their enemies quickly and ferociously. After the battle, they meted out judgment against the

ten sons of Haman, described here as “an enemy of the Jews” (v. 10). During the festival of Purim today, celebrants often read through the book of Esther aloud. Tradition calls for the names of Haman’s sons to be read together, in one breath, without pause. This reflects the way in which they were killed, quickly and together.

What was not done during battle is also notable. The Jews chose not to “lay their hands on the plunder” (v. 10). In contrast to the evil plans of Haman, they did not wish to gain material goods, only to defend themselves and ensure the safety of God’s people. They did not use the battle as an excuse to enrich their own coffers; rather, they focused on what was more important: bringing justice to the enemies of God. The king continued to honor Esther’s request. He extended his permission to Esther, Mordecai, and God’s people, to right what had been wronged.

APPLY THE WORD

Like the psalmist, we may cry out for God to act and punish those who do wrong. This passage reminds us that God is faithful, even when we don’t know His timetable. He is all-powerful and all-knowing God, and He has the final victory. Praise Him that when all is said and done, our God will triumph over evil.

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