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We deserved your punishment, O Lord.
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But our enemies are no longer satisfied just to see us in slavery. They have made a solemn promise to their idols
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not only to destroy the people who praise you, but to do away with your Law and to remove forever the glory of your house and altar.
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They want the whole world to praise worthless idols and stand in awe of mortal kings forever.
39
"Lord, these gods are nothing; do not surrender your power to them or give our enemies the chance to laugh at our downfall. Instead, turn their evil plans against them, and make an example of that man who first planned our destruction.
40
"Remember us, O Lord. Come to us in this time of trouble. Give me courage, King of all gods and Ruler over all earthly powers.
41
Give me the right words to say when I go in to face Xerxes, that savage lion. Change his heart so that he will turn against Haman, our enemy, and destroy him and his gang.
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Come to our rescue, O Lord. Help me; I am all alone, and I have no one to turn to but you.
43
"You know everything, Lord. You know that I hate the honor I receive from these Gentiles. I detest the thought of having sex with any of these uncircumcised heathen.
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But you know that I have no choice. I hate the crown I have to wear as queen on official occasions. I never wear it unless I have to; it's as disgusting as last month's rag.
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I refuse to eat at Haman's table or honor the king by attending his parties, and I have never drunk any of the wine dedicated to his gods.
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