Esther 3:14

A copy The word in the original is of Persian origin, and occurs again in Esther 4:8; Esther 8:13.

that the decree should be given out The marg. to be given out for a decree, is probably better, the writing and the decree being one and the same.

unto all the peoples See on Esther 1:11.

that they should be ready against that day A few weeks would suffice for the edict to reach even remote provinces of the Empire. Thus the Jews" enemies would have ample time to make preparations for the carrying out of its purpose. It is of course obvious that the intended victims would also hereby be given an opportunity of defending themselves; and this must be acknowledged to be a difficulty, if we assume the accuracy of the dates given for the successive parts of the transaction. Clearly, however, we are not in a position to impugn their accuracy by conjecturing a shorter interval between the inception of the scheme and the date appointed for its execution, inasmuch as a considerable time is demanded by the exigencies of the narrative for circumstances attending the overthrow of Haman, the change in the king's sentiments, and the transmission of letters permitting the Jews to defend themselves.