Esther 9:19

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore the Jews {H3064} of the villages {H6521}, that dwelt {H3427} in the unwalled {H6519} towns {H5892}, made {H6213} the fourteenth {H702}{H6240} day {H3117} of the month {H2320} Adar {H143} a day of gladness {H8057} and feasting {H4960}, and a good {H2896} day {H3117}, and of sending {H4916} portions {H4490} one {H376} to another {H7453}.

Complete Jewish Bible

This is why the Jews of the villages, those who live in unwalled towns, make the fourteenth day of the month of Adar a day for celebrating and rejoicing, a holiday and a time for sending each other portions [of food].

Berean Standard Bible

This is why the rural Jews, who live in the villages, observe the fourteenth day of the month of Adar as a day of joy and feasting. It is a holiday for sending gifts to one another.

American Standard Version

Therefore do the Jews of the villages, that dwell in the unwalled towns, make the fourteenth day of the month Adar a day of gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to another.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Esther 9:19 describes the spontaneous and joyous response of the Jewish communities residing in the unwalled towns of the Persian Empire following their miraculous deliverance from annihilation. Having successfully defended themselves against their enemies on the thirteenth day of Adar, these rural inhabitants dedicated the fourteenth day to exuberant celebration, marked by gladness, feasting, and the communal practice of sending food portions to one another. This immediate outpouring of gratitude and relief established a foundational precedent for the annual observance of Purim, highlighting profound themes of divine reversal, communal solidarity, and enduring remembrance of God's faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Esther 9:19 serves as a crucial bridge, concluding the narrative of the Jews' victorious self-defense and introducing the formal establishment of the Purim festival. Immediately preceding this verse, the book details Haman's genocidal decree against the Jewish people, issued in [Esther 3:13](/esther/3-13 "Esther 3:13 - Haman's Decree"), and Queen Esther's courageous intercession that led to King Ahasuerus's counter-decree, empowering the Jews to defend themselves on the very day Haman had chosen for their destruction ([Esther 8:11-14](/esther/8-11-14 "Esther 8:11-14 - The King's Counter-Decree")). The preceding verses, [Esther 9:1-17](/esther/9-1-17 "Esther 9:1-17 - The Jews' Victory Throughout the Provinces"), recount the widespread victory of the Jewish people over their adversaries across the 127 provinces of the Persian Empire. Specifically, [Esther 9:18](/esther/9-18 "Esther 9:18 - Susa's Two-Day Battle") notes that the Jews in the capital city of Susa fought for two days (the 13th and 14th of Adar) and only rested on the 15th. In distinct contrast, Esther 9:19 focuses on the Jews in the "unwalled towns," who completed their defense on the 13th and therefore began their celebration on the 14th, establishing a unique pattern for the festival's observance that would later be harmonized.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of the Book of Esther are set during the reign of Ahasuerus, generally identified as Xerxes I (486-465 BC), who ruled over the vast Persian Empire. This period was characterized by a highly centralized imperial administration, where royal decrees, once issued, were considered irrevocable ([Esther 8:8](/esther/8-8 "Esther 8:8 - Irrevocable Decrees")). The Jewish diaspora, scattered throughout this empire, faced a genuine and existential threat. The "unwalled towns" (Hebrew: _prazot_) refer to rural settlements lacking defensive walls, making their inhabitants more vulnerable to attack compared to those in fortified cities like Susa. Their immediate celebration on the 14th of Adar reflects a direct, unhindered response to their deliverance, as they did not experience the extended conflict seen in the capital. The customs of feasting and sending portions were common in the ancient Near East for celebrating significant events, serving as expressions of communal solidarity, joy, and gratitude. This verse captures the spontaneous, organic genesis of a festival that would later be formally established and codified by Mordecai and Esther in [Esther 9:20-22](/esther/9-20-22 "Esther 9:20-22 - Establishment of Purim").

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Esther. Firstly, it vividly illustrates the theme of **Divine Reversal and Deliverance**, where a day meticulously planned for the destruction of God's people is miraculously transformed into a day of exuberant celebration and decisive victory. This transformation underscores God's sovereign and providential care, even in a narrative where His name is conspicuously absent. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Communal Solidarity and Generosity**, particularly through the practice of "sending portions one to another." This act fosters unity, ensures that all members of the community, including the less fortunate, can partake in the joy and bounty, and reinforces the bonds of fellowship in the aftermath of shared adversity and triumph. This practice becomes a cornerstone of the Purim observance, as further detailed in [Esther 9:22](/esther/9-22 "Esther 9:22 - Customs of Purim"). Thirdly, Esther 9:19 establishes the theme of **Remembrance and Gratitude**, as the celebration on the 14th of Adar becomes a lasting memorial to God's intervention and the salvation He provided. This ensures that future generations would recall this extraordinary deliverance and offer thanks, solidifying the historical and spiritual significance of the event.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gladness (Hebrew, _simchâh'_):** From H8057, this term denotes a deep, profound joy and blithesomeness, often associated with religious festivals and the experience of divine favor. It signifies not merely superficial happiness but a profound sense of well-being, delight, and triumph. In the context of Esther, this _simchâh_ stands in stark contrast to the mourning, fasting, and lamentation that had gripped the Jewish people following Haman's decree ([Esther 4:3](/esther/4-3 "Esther 4:3 - Jewish Mourning and Fasting")). The transformation from sorrow to such profound gladness is a central motif, underscoring the miraculous nature of their deliverance.
* **Feasting (Hebrew, _mishteh'_):** From H4960, this word refers to a banquet or drinking party, a common and significant form of celebration in the ancient world. Throughout the Book of Esther, feasts often serve as pivotal settings or turning points, from King Ahasuerus's grand banquets to Queen Esther's crucial banquets where Haman's wicked plot is ultimately exposed ([Esther 5:4](/esther/5-4 "Esther 5:4 - Esther's First Banquet")). Here, _mishteh_ signifies a communal expression of relief, triumph, and abundance, a shared experience of security and provision after a period of extreme peril and scarcity.
* **Good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** From H2896, this versatile word signifies something that is beneficial, pleasant, beautiful, or morally upright. When applied to a "day" (_yôwm_, H3117), as in "a good day," it implies a day set apart for enjoyment, prosperity, and blessing, often carrying the connotation of a holiday or a day of favor. This designation elevates the 14th of Adar beyond a mere ordinary day, marking it as a special occasion filled with positive experiences, reinforcing its festive nature and the profound blessing of deliverance received.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore the Jews of the villages, that dwelt in the unwalled towns,"**: This opening clause precisely identifies the specific segment of the Jewish population initiating this celebration. The "Jews of the villages" (Hebrew: _Yehudim haperazim_) refers to those living in the _prazot_, or open, unwalled settlements. This detail is crucial as it distinguishes their experience from the Jews in fortified cities like Susa, who faced a different timeline for their conflict and subsequent celebration. The causal "Therefore" directly links their immediate celebration to their successful defense on the 13th of Adar, indicating a spontaneous and direct response to their deliverance.
* **"made the fourteenth day of the month Adar [a day of] gladness and feasting,"**: This phrase specifies the exact date and the primary activities of their celebration. The 14th of Adar was chosen because their fighting concluded on the 13th, allowing them to rest and celebrate on the very next day. The combination of "gladness and feasting" encapsulates the core essence of this celebration, signifying profound joy, immense relief, and the communal sharing of food and drink. This marks a complete and dramatic reversal of the day that was originally intended for their destruction, transforming it into a day of life and triumph.
* **"and a good day, and of sending portions one to another."**: This final clause further elaborates on the character and customs of the day. "A good day" (Hebrew: _yom tov_) reinforces its festive and blessed nature, indicating a day set apart for enjoyment and well-being. The crucial act of "sending portions one to another" introduces a vital element of communal generosity, mutual support, and solidarity. This practice, which would become a defining characteristic of the Purim festival, ensures that the joy and bounty of the day are shared throughout the entire community, strengthening social bonds and providing for all members, especially the less fortunate.

#### Literary Devices
Esther 9:19 is rich with literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Contrast** is evident in the distinction drawn between the Jews in the "unwalled towns" and those in the capital, Susa, highlighting their differing experiences of the conflict and the subsequent celebration dates. This contrast ultimately explains the two-day observance of Purim. There is profound **Irony** at play, as the day originally designated for the Jews' annihilation is miraculously transformed into a day of joyous feasting and celebration, a complete and divinely orchestrated reversal. The phrase "gladness and feasting" functions as a **Metonymy**, representing the entire spectrum of communal celebration, relief, and gratitude that permeated the day. Furthermore, the spontaneous establishment of this day of celebration, particularly with the inclusion of "sending portions," serves as a clear **Foreshadowing** of the formal institution of Purim, laying the essential groundwork for the enduring traditions and customs described in the subsequent verses of [Esther 9](/esther/9 "Esther 9 - The Feast of Purim").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Esther 9:19 stands as a powerful testament to God's providential care for His people, even in a book where His divine name is never explicitly mentioned. The spontaneous outpouring of "gladness and feasting" by the Jews in the villages underscores the profound relief and overflowing joy that accompanies divine deliverance. It vividly demonstrates God's sovereign ability to transform a day of impending doom into a day of exuberant celebration, turning mourning into dancing ([Psalm 30:11](/psalm/30-11 "Psalm 30:11 - Turning Mourning into Dancing")) and evil intentions into good ([Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - Joseph's Words to His Brothers")). The practice of "sending portions one to another" highlights the profound theological importance of communal solidarity, generosity, and the sharing of blessings within the covenant community. It reflects a spirit of unity and mutual care, ensuring that the joy of deliverance is experienced by all, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. This act of sharing foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on Christian fellowship, benevolence, and the communal expression of God's love.

* [Psalm 30:11](/psalm/30-11 "Psalm 30:11 - Turning Mourning into Dancing")
* [Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "Nehemiah 8:10 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")
* [Deuteronomy 16:11](/deuteronomy/16-11 "Deuteronomy 16:11 - Rejoicing Before the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther 9:19 offers timeless and profound lessons for believers today, serving as a poignant reminder of the spiritual significance of remembering and celebrating God's enduring faithfulness. Just as the Jews in the unwalled towns spontaneously erupted in "gladness and feasting" after their miraculous deliverance, we too are called to cultivate a spirit of profound gratitude and joy for God's countless interventions in our lives. This verse encourages us to recognize God's sovereign hand, even when unseen or unmentioned, in turning our trials into triumphs and our deepest sorrows into unbridled joy. Furthermore, the emphasis on "sending portions one to another" serves as a powerful and practical reminder of the paramount importance of communal solidarity and generosity within the body of Christ. True spiritual flourishing often occurs within the rich context of shared blessings, mutual support, and compassionate outreach. It challenges us to look beyond our individual circumstances and actively participate in building up our communities, ensuring that the joy of God's grace and provision extends tangibly to all, especially those in need. This act of sharing is not merely a cultural custom but a vital spiritual discipline that fosters unity, deepens compassion, and provides a tangible expression of God's transformative love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I actively remember and celebrate God's past deliverances and blessings in my own life, both personally and communally?**
* **In what practical and tangible ways can I demonstrate "sending portions"—sharing my resources, time, spiritual gifts, or even a meal—with others in my church or broader community?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more consistent sense of "gladness and feasting" in my spiritual walk, even amidst ongoing challenges, trusting in God's ultimate reversal of circumstances?**
* **What does this verse teach me about the importance of communal celebration, mutual support, and shared joy within the body of Christ, and how can I contribute to it more effectively?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "unwalled towns" mentioned in Esther 9:19?**

Answer: The "unwalled towns" (Hebrew: _prazot_) refer to the Jewish communities living in open, rural settlements that lacked defensive walls. This detail is highly significant because it distinguishes their experience from the Jews residing in the capital city of Susa, who were protected by fortifications and faced a more prolonged conflict. While the Jews in Susa fought for two days (the 13th and 14th of Adar) and rested on the 15th ([Esther 9:18](/esther/9-18 "Esther 9:18 - Susa's Two-Day Battle")), the Jews in the unwalled towns completed their self-defense on the 13th. Consequently, they were able to celebrate their deliverance on the very next day, the 14th of Adar. This difference in timing directly led to the establishment of Purim as a two-day festival, with celebrations on the 14th in unwalled towns and on the 15th in walled cities, a distinction that continues to be observed in modern Purim traditions. It highlights the diverse experiences of the Jewish diaspora within the vast Persian Empire and the flexibility in the festival's initial observance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther 9:19, with its powerful themes of divine reversal, joyous feasting, and communal sharing following a miraculous deliverance, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment and echoes throughout the New Testament. The "gladness and feasting" of the Jews in the unwalled towns foreshadows the ultimate celebration of salvation wrought by Jesus Christ. Just as a day of intended destruction was turned into a day of life and joy for the Jewish people, so too, through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross, humanity's condemnation under sin was transformed into the glorious promise of eternal life and reconciliation with God ([Romans 5:8-10](/romans/5-8-10 "Romans 5:8-10 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). The ultimate "good day" is the day of Christ's resurrection, which turned the sorrow of the cross into the triumph of new life, providing the unshakeable foundation for the believer's enduring joy ([John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Your Joy No One Can Take Away")). Furthermore, the practice of "sending portions one to another" anticipates the communal fellowship, radical generosity, and mutual care inherent in the Christian Church, the very body of Christ. Believers are called to share their spiritual and material blessings, to care for the poor and marginalized, and to celebrate together the divine deliverance they have received through the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). The ultimate feast, toward which all earthly celebrations point, is the glorious [marriage supper of the Lamb](/revelation/19-9 "The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"), where all who have been delivered by Christ will gather in eternal gladness, a perfect and complete fulfillment of every earthly celebration of salvation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Esther 8:17

And in every province, and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a good day. And many of the people of the land became Jews; for the fear of the Jews fell upon them.

Deuteronomy 16:14

And thou shalt rejoice in thy feast, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite, the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that [are] within thy gates.

Revelation 11:10

And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

Nehemiah 8:10

Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for [this] day [is] holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

Nehemiah 8:12

And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.

Esther 9:22

As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.

Deuteronomy 16:11

And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that [are] among you, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there.