Definition: Then were the king’s scribes called at that time in the third month, that [is], the month Sivan, on the three and twentieth [day] thereof; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which [are] from India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their writing, and according to their language.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty detailed description of a meeting that happened in ancient Persia! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us about a very important gathering of people who were being watched by the King. It’s essentially a record of a secret meeting where the king was concerned about potential trouble brewing. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Esther 8:9” : This is the title of the verse – it’s from the Book of Esther in the Bible. “Then were the king’s scribes called at that time…” : The King’s scribes (basically, his messengers and record keepers) were summoned to this meeting. “…in the third month, on the three and twentieth [day] thereof” : The meeting was scheduled for the third month of the year – which is Sivan in the Jewish calendar. Specifically, it was on the 20th day of that month. It’s important to note the "thirty" part - this refers to a specific number of days. “…and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which [are] from India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their writing, and according to their language.” : This is the really long part. It's a list of who was present at the meeting. It’s talking about the King’s officials (scribes) sending a detailed report to everyone living in all the different regions – from India all the way to Ethiopia! What does this mean in practice? Concern for Potential Trouble: The King was worried that there might be a problem brewing within his kingdom. This meeting was meant to be a discreet way to gather information and ensure his security. A Record of Instructions: The detailed list shows the King's instructions – he wanted to know about everyone in all those distant lands. It’s like a record of who was important, who needed to be watched, and how they were connected. In short, this verse describes a meeting where the King asked his officials to gather information about people across a vast empire. It highlights the King's concern for safety and security in a time when things might not be as stable as they seemed. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Relate this verse to a specific story or event from the Bible?