Také královna Ester, dcera Abíchajlova a adoptivní dcera Žida Mordokaje, podepřela Mordokajův návrh vlastním dopisem. Oba jejich dopisy, ustanovující nový židovský svátek Purim, byly rozeslány Židům do všech 127 provincií Ahasverovy říše. Židé si v tyto dny už stejně připomínali národním půstem a modlitbami, takže Ester tento lidový zvyk pak jenom uzákonila.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Esther and Mordecai write a letter to confirm the celebration of Purim. Purim is a festival that was established to remember how the Jews were saved from destruction. The letter they wrote had full authority.
Explained for Children
Imagine you and your friend create a special day to celebrate something amazing that happened to your family. You write a letter to your neighbors telling them about this special day and why it's important. That's what Esther and Mordecai did with Purim, but for the whole Jewish community.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the Book of Esther, written around the 5th century BCE. It reflects the period when Jews were under Persian rule and faced a threat of annihilation. Esther and Mordecai, with their influence, secured a decree to celebrate Purim, ensuring the memory of deliverance was preserved.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, this verse reminds us of the importance of preserving and celebrating our community's significant historical moments. For example, a community might decide to celebrate a day of overcoming a local crisis, like a flood or a pandemic.
Why is it important that Esther and Mordecai wrote the letter?
Their authority gave the letter weight, ensuring that the Purim festival was recognized and celebrated by all Jews in the Persian Empire.
What is Purim?
Purim is a Jewish holiday commemorating the salvation of the Jewish people from the plot of Haman, who planned to exterminate them.
How does Purim relate to the modern day?
Today, Purim continues to be celebrated by Jews around the world, a reminder of divine protection and the importance of communal celebration.
Why is the second letter important?
The second letter serves to reinforce and clarify the details of Purim, ensuring that the festival is observed correctly and its significance is understood by all.