Question 1

What does Esther 9:5 mean?

Accepted Answer

Esther 9:5 describes how the Jews defended themselves by striking down their enemies with the sword, causing great destruction to those who hated them, and acting as they saw necessary against their attackers. The verse highlights the Jews’ ability to fully overcome those who had planned to harm them. This verse comes after the king’s new decree allowed the Jews throughout the Persian Empire to protect themselves from those who wanted to destroy them. The story is set in the time of Queen Esther and King Ahasuerus, and the verse reports the outcome: the Jews successfully fought back, turning the tables on their enemies, and were not limited in how they responded to those who hated them.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Esther 9:5

Accepted Answer

"Smote" (נָכָה, nakah) means to strike or hit, often with deadly force. In this context, it emphasizes that the Jews were not just defending but actively defeating their enemies. "Stroke" (מַכָּה, makkah) refers to a blow or wound, often from a weapon. This word underlines the violence and seriousness of the conflict. "Would" (רָצוֹן, ratzon) means will or desire. The phrase "did what they would" suggests the Jews had freedom to act as they saw fit in dealing with their enemies, not being held back by previous restrictions. "Hated" (שָׂנֵא, sane) describes those who had deep hostility toward the Jews. This word shows that the conflict was not random but directed at those who had shown hatred.

Question 3

Why Esther 9:5 matters

Accepted Answer

Esther 9:5 makes clear that the Jews were not aggressors but were responding to a real threat from those who hated them, which helps prevent misunderstanding about the nature of their actions. The verse shows the complete reversal of fortune for the Jews, connecting to the larger theme of deliverance and survival in the book of Esther. By mentioning that the Jews did "what they would," the verse highlights the extent of the king’s permission and the seriousness of the threat they faced, helping readers understand the gravity of the situation.

Esther 9:5 (KJV)