Therefore the Jews of the villages, that dwelt in the unwalled towns, made the fourteenth day of the month Adar a day of gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to another.
ESTHER 9:19KJVWhat does Esther 9:19 mean?
Esther 9:19 describes how the Jewish people living in villages and unwalled towns established the fourteenth day of the month Adar as a day of celebration, feasting, and sharing gifts with each other. This verse explains the origin of a joyful holiday for these communities, marking their relief and victory.
The verse is set after the Jews have defended themselves from their enemies, as told in the Book of Esther. It highlights that those living outside the main city of Susa (in smaller, unwalled towns) celebrated their deliverance on a different day than those in the capital. The verse also mentions the practice of sending portions (gifts of food) to one another, showing how the celebration included generosity and community.
The Hebrew behind Esther 9:19
- "Villages" (פְּרָזוֹת, perazot): This word means open or unwalled settlements, emphasizing that these were less protected places compared to fortified cities. It shows that even those in vulnerable locations participated in the celebration.
- "Sending portions" (מִשְׁלוֹחַ מָנוֹת, mishloach manot): This phrase refers to the custom of sending gifts of food to friends and neighbors, which is still practiced during the Jewish festival of Purim. The original Hebrew highlights the communal and generous spirit of the holiday.
Why Esther 9:19 matters
- Esther 9:19 clarifies that the celebration of deliverance was not limited to the main city but was also established among rural and less-defended Jewish communities.
- The verse explains the origin of the Purim custom of sharing food, which remains a central part of the holiday today.
- This detail connects to the broader theme of unity and shared joy among the Jewish people, regardless of where they lived.