Esther

This book is in process. It had been completed but data was lost in a systems transition.

The Jews were given permission to defend themselves on March 7. They killed 500 people in Susa alone. When Xerxes heard the news he asked Esther what else he could do, she asked that they be allowed to defend themselves one more day and to impale Haman’s 10 sons on a pole. Xerxes agreed. Then they defended themselves on March 8 as well and Haman’s sons were impaled on poles. In every case no plunder was collected by the Jews. There were about 75,000 people killed as a result across the kingdom. On March 9, they rested.

Then Mordecai, who had become famous due to his position serving the king, called for a feast to commemorate what had happened. Fasting followed by feasting became the tradition of the feast of Purim (named after the casting of lots).

Principles: Do the hard work to do what needs to be done. Celebrate God’s victory.

Xerxes established a tribute for Mordecai and made him prime minister and second in power to only Xerxes himself. Mordecai was revered among the Jews for caring for the welfare of his people.

Principles: Faithfulness increases your stature.