Esther 8:9-17 – Spot the Difference

As you read through today’s passage perhaps you thought, “I’ve heard this before.” You’re not wrong. Chapter 8 sounds suspiciously like chapter 3. Many of the sentences are reproduced almost word for word (compare 3:12-15 with 8:9-14). This isn’t a case of lazy writing though: the similarities make a serious point.

By repeating himself, the writer is demonstrating that Esther’s decree was to go forth with just as much force as Haman’s. Haman’s decree had seemed like the last word on the matter: the Jews would be destroyed and that was that.

Yet, by describing this decree in the same way, the writer is telling us that Mordecai, not Haman, would have the final say.

The similarities aren’t the only key thing about this passage. The differences are just as important. By using such similar language, the writer is practically begging us to play a game of spot the difference. Let’s do that now.

Take Mordecai for example. When Haman’s edict was unveiled, he looked a wretched sight. He wore sackcloth and ashes in order to reflect his agonising turmoil (4:1). Passers-by would have known: this is a man who has hit rock bottom.

Yet, in 8:15, Mordecai is a changed man, with a wardrobe to match. The sackcloth is gone; the resplendent royal robes are in. It couldn’t be more obvious: this is a man transformed.

It wasn’t just Mordecai. Every Jewish home had once reverberated to a soundtrack of weeping, wailing, and despair (4:3). But not any more! Now they were known for their gladness and joy (8:16-17).

This isn’t just a neat literary trick. The writer wants us to compare the bleakness of chapters 3 & 4 with the incredible joy of chapter 8. There can only be one explanation: the incredible saving work of God himself.

“You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
that my glory may sing your praise.” (Psalm 30:11-12)

Questions
1. Think about your own story of salvation. Is it similar to Mordecai’s?
2. What is God’s ultimate purpose in sending trials and deliverance? (Psalm 30:12)

Prayer Points
1.Praise God for the transformation he has brought about in you and pray that you would praise him more for this.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.