What was Pur?

Pur was not a person, but a lot—a form of casting lots or drawing chances—that played a pivotal role in the Book of Esther. The word “Pur” (Hebrew: פּוּר, pūr) is of Persian origin, meaning “lot.” It refers specifically to the method Haman used to determine the date for the destruction of the Jewish people across the Persian Empire (Esther 3:7). This act of divination, intended to bring about destruction, ultimately became a symbol of God’s providential reversal and is commemorated in the Jewish feast known as Purim.

Pur is mentioned directly in Esther 3:7, where it says, “In the twelfth year of King Xerxes, in the first month, the month of Nisan, the Pur (that is, the lot) was cast in the presence of Haman to select a day and month. And the lot fell on the twelfth month, the month of Adar.” The same term appears again in Esther 9:24–26, giving the name to the celebration that remembers Israel’s deliverance.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Esther 3:7 – Introduction of the Pur as the method for selecting the date.

• Esther 9:24-26 – The origin and naming of the feast of Purim.

• Proverbs 16:33 – “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.”

• Leviticus 16:8-10 – Casting lots used in determining the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement.

• Jonah 1:7 – Casting lots to identify Jonah as the cause of the storm.

• Acts 1:26 – Lots used by the apostles to choose Matthias as Judas‘ replacement.

These references show that while casting lots was a human action, God ultimately governed the outcome.

Explanation of the Biblical Event

In the book of Esther, Haman, a high-ranking official under King Xerxes, grew enraged at Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow before him. In his hatred, Haman didn’t only seek revenge on Mordecai but devised a plan to exterminate all Jews in the kingdom. Before presenting this genocidal plan to the king, Haman cast “Pur”—lots—to determine the most favorable day for executing his plan. The lot fell on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar.

Although this seemed like an arbitrary or even spiritually-guided act from a pagan perspective, Scripture subtly shows that even what appeared to be chance was under God’s control. The long delay—almost a full year—gave time for God to work through Esther and Mordecai to thwart the evil plot and deliver His people.

This inversion of fate—turning a day meant for death into a day of victory—is memorialized in the Jewish festival of Purim, named after the very lot Haman cast.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

For believers today, the story of Pur serves as a reminder that God is sovereign over all things, including what appears to be random or insignificant. In a world filled with unpredictability, Christians can trust that even the casting of lots, or modern uncertainties, are within the bounds of God’s providential rule.

Additionally, Purim symbolizes how God can turn evil intentions into good outcomes (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28). The evil scheme of Haman using Pur to destroy God’s people ultimately led to their deliverance and a national celebration of life and divine faithfulness.

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

The reversal that occurs through Pur points to the ultimate reversal achieved by Jesus Christ. Just as Haman sought to destroy the Jews, Satan sought to destroy the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15). Jesus, though unjustly sentenced to death, triumphed over sin, death, and Satan through His resurrection. What seemed like defeat on the cross became eternal victory.

Pur, a symbol of death, became associated with life and joy in Purim. Likewise, the cross, a symbol of shame and execution, has become the very emblem of salvation and eternal life for those who believe in Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty Over Human Affairs

Even when God is not mentioned explicitly (as in the Book of Esther), He is always at work behind the scenes. The casting of Pur reminds us that God‘s hand governs all history.

2. Providence and Deliverance

Pur shows how God uses unlikely means—including pagan superstitions—to fulfill His purposes. He provides deliverance through unexpected channels.

3. Evil Schemes Overturned

What is meant for harm, God uses for good. This is a recurring theme from Joseph’s story in Genesis to the crucifixion of Christ.

4. The Power of Remembrance

Purim encourages the practice of remembering God’s saving acts, a pattern echoed in Christian observances like the Lord’s Supper.

5. Identity and Courage

The Purim narrative, triggered by Pur, also highlights themes of standing firm in one’s God-given identity and speaking up in times of danger—as seen in Esther and Mordecai.

Reflection Questions

1. How does the story of Pur challenge your understanding of chance and randomness in life?

2. In what ways have you seen God’s hand at work in situations that seemed out of control?

3. What “lots” have been cast in your life that God has turned for your good?

4. How can you, like Esther, step into roles of courage when evil plans threaten those around you?

5. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God’s providence more deeply?

6. How does the theme of reversal through Pur point you to Jesus‘ work on the cross?

7. What can we learn from the way God‘s people celebrated and remembered His deliverance through Purim?

8. How might the sovereignty of God affect the way you make decisions and respond to uncertainty?

9. What does Purim teach about the relationship between political events and spiritual realities?

10. How can you use the story of Pur to encourage someone facing unjust opposition?

Pur, though just a lot cast by a pagan official, becomes a rich symbol of God’s hidden hand, providential care, and redemptive power. It reminds believers that God is always at work—even when His name is not mentioned—and that every “Pur” cast in life is ultimately under His sovereign authority.