(7) В¶ In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar.
It should seem, that what is here said concerning the casting of the lot, means as if Haman was using some art or contrivance, by way of better forwarding his malicious designs. One thing, however, seems clear from it, that, as the lot did not turn up until the twelfth month, it gave a longer time for the LORD'S purposes, concerning the delivery of his people, to ripen. Solomon tells us, that the lot is cast into the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD. Proverbs 16:33. No doubt, while these diabolical designs of Haman were contriving, the LORD'S people were sharply exercised. And, no doubt, great opportunity was afforded for prayer. Reader! the delay of judgments and of mercies may be all sanctified, when they lead us the oftener to the throne of grace.