Esther 9:2-5 - Homilies By F. Hastings

A reign of terror.

"The Jews gathered themselves together in their cities," etc. There were many greedy to possess the property of the Jews, and such as cherished spite against them, who were glad of the permission to slay and plunder, which Haman's letters gave. When the king's letters which reached the Jews gave them permission to withstand those who opposed, there must have been great perplexity in many minds and fear in many hearts.

I. FOOLISH LAWS BRING ABOUT REIGNS OF TERROR . The foolish consent of the king became law, and then by another absurd law it could not be changed or checked.

II. IN REIGNS OF TERROR THE INNOCENT HAVE TO SUFFER WITH THE GUILTY .

III. IN REIGNS OF TERROR THE GOOD MUST STAND TOGETHER . In the world there is a great fight for goodness, truth, and Christ to be still waged. Anarchy suits the prince of darkness. The Christian is in ever)- sense the friend of order, good government, and righteousness.—H.