Discussion #16 ~ Esther 9

Isa! Can you believe it?! We are almost done!!!! I am very excited for you to post questions for Chapter 10.

1. 9:1 begins a new section of our story, it provides transition. What are the clues that show us we are entering a new subsection of the story? What does the verse provide for the story that follows?

2. Chapters 9 & 10 do much to validate the truth of the story. What evidence do you find that shows we are hearing about a real historical event and not a legend?

3. The Jews destroyed their enemies, but only as a defense. Why might it be significant that “they did not lay their hands on the plunder” (vv.15 & 16)?

4. Mordecai gets a lot of press time in the last two chapters. But isn’t this a book about Esther? Who are the persons/groups that prevail in these chapters? What does this teach us?

5. What might the purpose of the book of Esther be?

6. Purim is the holiday established in our story. What third party information can you find about how Jews celebrate Purim?

7. Verses 31-32 show that Purim involves fasting, lamentation, and celebration (v.20). What benefit comes from fasting and lamentation in addition to celebration? What Christian concepts might be a modern way to help our hearts and minds do this same thing?