23
had so far forth obtained the favor that we show toward every nation that he was called our father, and was continually honored by all men as the next person unto the king.
24
But he, not bearing his great dignity, went about to deprive us of our kingdom and life,
25
having by manifold and cunning deceits sought from us the destruction of Mordecai, who saved our life and continually procured our good, as also of blameless Esther, partaker of our kingdom, together with their whole nation.
26
For by these means, finding us destitute of friends, he thought to have transferred the kingdom of the Persians to the Macedonians.
27
"But we find that the Jews, whom this wicked wretch hath delivered to utter destruction, are no evildoers but live by most just laws,
28
and that they be children of the Most High and most mighty, living God, who hath ordered the kingdom both for us and for our progenitors in the most excellent manner.
29
"Therefore ye shall do well not to put in execution the letters sent unto you by Haman the son of Hammedatha.
30
For he that was the worker of these things is hanged at the gates of Shushan with all his family, God, who ruleth all things, speedily rendering vengeance to him according to his deserts.
31
'Therefore ye shall publish the copy of this letter in all places, that the Jews may freely live under their own laws.
32
And ye shall aid them, that even the same day, being the thirteenth day of the twelfth month of Adar, they may be avenged on those who in the time of their affliction shall set upon them.
33
For Almighty God hath turned to joy unto them the day wherein the chosen people should have perished.