Esther 8:16

16 For the Jews there was joy and relief, happiness and a sense of victory.

Esther 8:16 Meaning and Commentary

Esther 8:16

And the Jews had light
Prosperity, as opposed to the darkness of adversity in which they had been, see ( Isaiah 8:22 Isaiah 9:1 Isaiah 8:2 ) , or lightsomeness and cheerfulness of spirit, as explained by the two next words:

and gladness and joy;
at the good news of their deliverance, so unexpected by them; thus light is explained by gladness, ( Psalms 97:11 )

and honour:
among men; from their neighbours, who before were held in contempt, as a people doomed to destruction.

Esther 8:16 In-Context

14 At the king's command the riders mounted royal horses and rode off at top speed. The decree was also made public in Susa, the capital city.
15 Mordecai left the palace, wearing royal robes of blue and white, a cloak of fine purple linen, and a magnificent gold crown. Then the streets of Susa rang with cheers and joyful shouts.
16 For the Jews there was joy and relief, happiness and a sense of victory.
17 In every city and province, wherever the king's proclamation was read, the Jews held a joyful holiday with feasting and happiness. In fact, many other people became Jews, because they were afraid of them now.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.