Old Testament

Esther 9:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this moment, Esther is speaking to the king, asking for permission to extend the decree that allowed the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies.

Author: Author unknown
Written: Around 460-330 BC
Genre: Historical narrative
Original Audience: Jews of the Persian diaspora

CBTClear Bible Translation

Then Esther said, "If it please the king, let it be granted to the Jews who are in Shushan to do tomorrow also according to this day's decree, and let Haman's ten sons be hanged on the gallows."

KJVKing James Version

Then said Esther, If it please the king, let it be granted to the Jews which are in Shushan to do to morrow also according unto this day’s decree, and let Haman’s ten sons be hanged upon the gallows.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, Esther is speaking to the king, asking for permission to extend the decree that allowed the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. She wants to ensure their safety and also requests that Haman's ten sons be punished for their father's evil actions. This shows Esther's courage and determination to protect her people. She is not only seeking justice but also demonstrating her leadership in a time of crisis. By asking for the continuation of the decree, she emphasizes the importance of standing up against oppression. Esther's request highlights the need for decisive action when faced with injustice. Her boldness in approaching the king reflects her deep commitment to her community and their well-being. This moment is pivotal, as it underscores the themes of justice, courage, and the fight against evil. Esther's actions remind us that sometimes we must advocate for what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous. Her story encourages us to be brave in the face of adversity and to seek justice for those who cannot fight for themselves.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Esther 9:13 to your life

Esther's boldness teaches us the importance of standing up for others, especially in challenging situations. We can learn to advocate for justice in our own lives, whether in our communities or workplaces. By being courageous, we can inspire others to do the same and create positive change together. Every small act of bravery counts in the fight against injustice. We should not shy away from difficult conversations or actions that promote fairness.

Curated for this public verse page. Esther Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Esther 9:13 mean?

Esther 9:13 captures Esther's request to the king to extend the decree allowing Jews to defend themselves and to punish Haman's ten sons. This reflects her determination to protect her people and seek justice against their oppressors.

What is the significance of Esther's request in Esther 9:13?

Esther's request in Esther 9:13 is significant as it demonstrates her courage and leadership during a critical moment for her people. By advocating for their safety and justice, she emphasizes the importance of standing against oppression.

What does the phrase 'let Haman's ten sons be hanged' mean in Esther 9:13?

The phrase 'let Haman's ten sons be hanged' in Esther 9:13 signifies a call for justice against Haman's family for their role in plotting against the Jews. It highlights the consequences of evil actions and the desire for accountability.

How does Esther 9:13 relate to themes of justice and courage?

Esther 9:13 relates to themes of justice and courage by showcasing Esther's willingness to confront the king for the sake of her people. Her actions reflect the necessity of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger.

Book Summary

The Book of Esther

Esther 1: King Ahasuerus and Queen Vashti

In the third year of his reign, King Ahasuerus of Persia, who rules from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces, holds a grand feast in the palace at Shushan. For 180 days, he displays the vast wealth of his kingdom and the splendor of his majesty to all his nobles and officials. Afterward, he hosts a seven-day feast for all the people in Shushan, from the greatest to the least, in the enclosed garden of the king's palace. The setting is lavish, with white, green, and blue hangings, gold and silver couches, and a mosaic pavement. Royal wine is served in abundance in golden vessels.

On the seventh day, when the king is merry with wine, he commands his seven chamberlains to bring Queen Vashti before him, wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and the nobles. However, Queen Vashti refuses to come at the king's command. The king becomes furious, and his anger burns within him. He consults his wise men, who know the law and judgment. Memucan, one of the seven princes of Persia and Media, advises the king that Vashti has wronged not only the king but also all the nobles and people in the provinces. He warns that her disobedience will become known to all women, causing them to despise their husbands. Memucan proposes that the king issue a royal decree, to be written into the laws of the Persians and the Medes so that it cannot be altered, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Ahasuerus. Her royal position is to be given to someone else who is better than she. The king and his princes are pleased with this advice, and the king sends letters to all parts of his kingdom, declaring that every man should be ruler over his own household. Esther 2: Esther Becomes Queen After King Ahasuerus's anger has subsided, his attendants suggest that a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king. They propose that officers be appointed in all the provinces to bring all the beautiful young virgins to the harem in the citadel of Shushan, under the care of Hegai, the king's eunuch in charge of the women. The young woman who pleases the king the most will become queen instead of Vashti. The king approves of this plan and puts it into effect. In the citadel of Shushan, there is a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin named Mordecai son of Jair, who had been carried into exile from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. Mordecai has a cousin named Hadassah, whom he had brought up because she had no father or mother. She is also known as Esther, and she is lovely in form and features. When the king's order is proclaimed, Esther is taken to the king's palace and entrusted to Hegai. She wins his favor and he provides her with beauty treatments, special food, and seven female attendants from the king's palace. At Mordecai's instruction, Esther does not reveal her nationality and family background. Mordecai walks back and forth near the courtyard of the harem every day to find out how she is and what is happening to her.

Premium

Unlock the full Esther summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Esther — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 10 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Esther summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

← Verse 12 Verse 14 →