36
"Every province, every city, without exception, which does not obey these orders will feel my anger. It will be destroyed in battle and burned to the ground. No human being will ever go there again, and even the birds and wild animals will avoid it forever.
37
"Post copies of this decree in plain view in every province, so that all the Jews can be ready to fight their enemies when that day comes."
38
Messengers on horses rode off at top speed to carry out the orders of the king, and the decree was also made public in Susa.
39
Mordecai left the palace, wearing royal robes, a turban of fine purple linen, and a gold crown. When the people of Susa saw him, they cheered,