CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:1.] The Targums understand by “house” all the people in it, and the entire property belonging thereto.—_Lange_. The confiscation of the property of one publicly executed followed as a matter of course. And to whom could the goods of the Jews’ enemy be more appropriately tr... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:3.] Haman was dead, but the edict which he had issued remained in force: therefore Esther “wept and made supplication” to Ahasuerus. MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH. Esther 8:3 SIN SURVIVES THE SINNER When Haman was executed Ahasuerus doubtless expected to be left at pe... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:5.] The introductory formula are in part similar to those used before, but strengthened by the introduction of two new phrases. LET IT BE WRITTEN TO REVERSE THE LETTERS] Perhaps Esther was not sufficiently acquainted with Persian law to know that no royal decree could be r... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:7.] The answer of Ahasuerus is a refusal, but one softened as much as possible. He first dwells on the proofs he bad just given of his friendly feeling towards the Jews; he then suggests that something may be done to help them without revoking the decree. Finally, he excuse... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:10.] Posts on horseback. On horseback, on coursers, government coursers, the sons of the stud.—_Keil_. SENT LETTERS BY POSTS] This is one of many intimations in this book calculated to engage the attention of those who take interest in studying the progress of society in th... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL NOTES.] ESTHER 8:15. CROWN OF GOLD] Not a crown like the king’s, but a mere golden band or coronet—Atarah.—_Rawlinson_. Royal apparel of blue and white. State garments such as became the grand vizier; royal robes of royal colours.—_Whedon_. It is well to compare this description of Mordecai... [ Continue Reading ]