Bible Commentary

Esther 9:3

The Pulpit Commentary on Esther 9:3

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

All the rulers of the provinces, and the lieutenants, and the deputies. Compare and , where the same enumeration is made, though not quite in the same order. And officers of the king.

Literally, "they who did the work of the king." The Septuagint renders by βασιλικοὶ γραμματεῖς, "royal scribes;" but officials of all classes seem to be intended. Helped the Jews. Rather, "upheld, supported" Active physical help does not seem to be meant, but rather the moral aid and support that a government easily gives to the side which it favours in a civil disturbance.

The fear of Mordecai fell upon them. It would give the sense better to translate "had fallen."

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