Journey Through The Scriptures
The Life of Esther
Lesson 6: The Jews Defeat Their Enemies
(Scripture to Read: Esther 9:1–19)
The plan that Esther and Mordecai made to thwart the genocide planned by Haman against the Jews worked to perfection. Jews from the city of Susa to the most remote provinces of this vast empire were ready on the prescribed day, and instead of being destroyed they won a great victory over their enemies. But even though King Ahasuerus gave the Jews permission to plunder their enemies’ property, they refused to take anything.
Even more amazing was the permission that Ahasuerus gave Esther to allow the Jews in Susa to continue the battle for a second day. Esther may have known about more attacks that were planned, or she may have wanted to ensure the end of her people’s enemies. The ten sons of Haman were among those enemies who fought against the Jews, and they also suffered the same fate as their father. Haman’s drastic plan demanded a drastic response.
Even more amazing was the permission that Ahasuerus gave Esther to allow the Jews in Susa to continue the battle for a second day. Esther may have known about more attacks that were planned, or she may have wanted to ensure the end of her people’s enemies. The ten sons of Haman were among those enemies who fought against the Jews, and they also suffered the same fate as their father. Haman’s drastic plan demanded a drastic response.
Study Questions
- Why do you think the officials of Persia decided to help the Jews in their fight against their enemies?
- Once before, God had put the fear of the Jews in the hearts of their enemies (Joshua 2:8-11). How did this fear help the cause of the Jews in Persia as they defended themselves?
- In what way was the Jews’ refusal to plunder their enemies a statement of their dependence on God?
- According to Zechariah 2:7-10, whoever touches Israel touches the "apple" of God’s eye. What does this passage teach about the fate of those today who try to destroy the Jews?
Something to Think About
God’s miraculous deliverance of the Jews in Esther’s day is a powerful reminder that He is the Rock and the Refuge of all who trust in Him.
God also invites us to come to Him each day and exchange our weakness for His strength. Read Isaiah 40:29-31 and thank the Lord for this great promise.
