Esther 8:17 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Joy spreads to every province, and many of the peoples join the Jews out of awe.
What Does Esther 8:17 Mean?
Everywhere the decree reaches, the Jews keep joy and gladness, a feast and a good day, and remarkably, many of the peoples of the land become Jews, for the fear of the Jews fell upon them. The deliverance spreads outward, and others are drawn to join the people so evidently favored.
That outsiders attach themselves to the Jews hints at something larger than political prudence. They sense a power and a protection surrounding this people that they wish to share. Without naming God, the narrator lets the nations' awe testify to the unseen hand that has so plainly defended Israel. The feasting begun here points forward to Purim, the lasting celebration of this great reversal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Esther 8:17
What does Esther 8:17 mean?
Joy spreads to every province, and many of the peoples join the Jews out of awe.