²² as the time when the Jews got relief^(A) from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration.^(B) He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food^(C) to one another and gifts to the poor.^(D)

²⁰ Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn^(A) while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.^{(B) 21} A woman giving birth to a child has pain^(C) because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world.

⁷ and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.