In each of the provinces of King Xerxes, the Jews assembled in their cities to attack those who sought to harm them. No man could withstand them, because the fear of them had fallen upon all peoples.
We have here a decisive battle fought between the Jews and their enemies, in which the Jews were victorious. Neither side was surprised; for both had notice of it long enough before, so that it was a fair trial of skill between them. Nor could either side call the other rebels, for they were both supported by the royal authority. I. The enemies of the Jews were the aggressors.
Commenting on Esther 9:1-19
The Jews gathered themselves together in their cities, throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus,.... Wherever they lived: to lay hand on such as sought their hurt; who not only threatened them what they would do on this day, but were risen up in arms in quest of them: and no man could withstand them, for the fear of them fell upon all people; when...
The Jews gathered themselves . . . no man could withstand them--The tables were now turned in their favor; and though their enemies made their long meditated attack, the Jews were not only at liberty to act on the defensive, but through the powerful influence enlisted on their side at court together with the blessing of God, they were everywhere victorious.