Ordained here translates the same verb translated “to enjoin” in verse 21 above. It reflects the fact of the Jews’ imposing or establishing a practice upon themselves. The author then uses a new synonym to shift the perspective by saying that they took it upon themselves. The translator will need to determine whether receptor language style can express a similar shift in perspective, namely, from imposition upon oneself to acceptance onto oneself. Otherwise Good News Translation provides a good model for combining the two actions into one.

As noted above on verse 21, an alternative understanding of the verb translated ordained is proposed by some interpreters who render the Hebrew verb “confirmed.” FOX, for example, says “the Jews confirmed and took it upon themselves” (see comments on verse 21 above).

All who joined the Jews are non-Jews who become converts to Judaism (so Good News Translation, Nueva Biblia Española; and see 8.17).

Without fail: this adverbial phrase translates a Hebrew verb, “to pass over,” that is described by the negative “not.” Traduction œcuménique de la Bible translates “they would not fail to observe.” One can also say “they would not omit to observe.” Good News Translation restates this in the affirmative with the adverb “regularly.”

These two days are the fourteenth and fifteenth of Adar (see verse 21 above).

According to what was written refers to Mordecai’s letter (see verses 20-22 above).

In the last part of this verse, the author’s emphasis upon time becomes very obvious, as it has many times previously in the book (compare 1.13, 4.14). He refers to two days, the time appointed, and every year. The two days are the fourteenth and fifteenth of Adar (see 9.21). Slight restructuring may be necessary; for example, “the time that was marked [or, cut]” or “the time Mordecai had set [or, fixed].” For every year the Hebrew says literally “in every year and year.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Noss, Philip A. A Handbook on Esther (The Hebrew Text). (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .