For a Decree which is Written in the Name of the King May not be Revoked

“…For a Decree which is Written in the Name of the King … May not be Revoked”

As we have seen, the structure of Megillat Esther is one of reversal or upheaval. This is particularly evident in the parallel between the letters written by Mordechai, permitting the Jews to gather and defend themselves, and those written and dispatched by Haman, permitting the killing of Jews. The results attained by the sending of these two sets of letters are also contrasted: Upon being informed of Haman ‘s letters Mordechai rends his garments and wears sackcloth; once the second set of letters is sent, Mordechai appears before the king dressed in royal garments.

These parallels point to the thoughtlessness of King Ahashverosh. The king is willing to hand the royal signet ring to Mordechai as easily as he gave it to Haman, even though the outcome of each one of those incidents was diametrically opposed. Ironically, it is the king himself who points out his foolishness when he tells Mordechai and Esther “Now you write to the Jews as you see fit, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for a decree which is written in the name of the king and sealed with the king’s signet ring may not be revoked” (Esther 8:8). The “rule of the ring” cannot be challenged – for documents that are signed with the king’s ring cannot be recalled. Yet, the king makes the same mistake again, and carelessly gives the ring away.

At the same time, the parallels of the megillah also emphasize the recurring cycle of history. God, the King of kings, is the one who ultimately decides what will happen, and Haman’s evil intentions against the Jews are turned against him and the enemies of the Jewish people.