Esther 4:15

Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai:

Study Bible

Then Esther
The name "Esther" is derived from the Persian word for "star," and her Hebrew name, Hadassah, means "myrtle." Esther's dual names reflect her unique position as a Jewish woman in a Persian court, symbolizing her dual identity and the providential role she plays in the deliverance of her people. Her account is a testament to God's sovereignty and the way He uses individuals, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes.

sent
The act of sending a message in ancient times was a deliberate and significant action, often involving a trusted messenger. This highlights Esther's careful and thoughtful approach to communication, especially in a matter of such grave importance. It underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation, as well as Esther's leadership and initiative.

this reply
The word "reply" indicates a response to a previous communication, in this case, Mordecai's plea for Esther to intercede with the king. This exchange between Esther and Mordecai is a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing the importance of dialogue and counsel in decision-making. It also reflects the weight of responsibility that Esther feels as she considers the implications of her actions.

to Mordecai
Mordecai, Esther's cousin and guardian, is a central figure in the Book of Esther. His name is thought to be derived from the Babylonian god Marduk, yet he is a devout Jew who remains faithful to his heritage. Mordecai's relationship with Esther is one of mutual respect and trust, and his guidance is instrumental in her development as a leader. This phrase emphasizes the bond between them and the role of family and community in supporting individuals facing difficult decisions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
A Jewish queen of Persia, originally named Hadassah, who was raised by her cousin Mordecai. She is known for her bravery and faith in God, which led her to risk her life to save her people.

2. Mordecai
Esther's cousin and guardian, a devout Jew who refused to bow to Haman, leading to a decree to destroy the Jews. He plays a crucial role in encouraging Esther to intercede with the king.

3. Persia
The setting of the Book of Esther, where the Jewish people were living in exile under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus).

4. Haman
The antagonist in the account, an official in the Persian court who plotted to annihilate the Jews because of his hatred for Mordecai.

5. The Decree
A royal edict issued by King Xerxes, influenced by Haman, to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire.

Teaching Points

Courage in Crisis
Esther's willingness to risk her life for her people teaches us the importance of courage and faith when facing difficult situations. We are called to trust God and act boldly when He places us in positions to make a difference.

The Power of Influence
Esther's position as queen gave her unique access to the king. This reminds us that God places us in specific roles and relationships for His purposes, and we should use our influence for His glory.

The Role of Community
Mordecai's support and the collective fasting and prayer of the Jewish community highlight the importance of seeking support and intercession from fellow believers in times of need.

Divine Providence
The account of Esther illustrates God's providence and His ability to use individuals to fulfill His plans. We should remain open to how God might use us in His divine account.

Faith and Action
Esther's account shows the balance between faith and action. While she trusted God, she also took practical steps to address the crisis, teaching us to combine prayer with purposeful action.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther's response to Mordecai's request demonstrate her faith and courage? How can we apply this in our own lives when faced with challenging situations?

2. In what ways does the account of Esther illustrate the concept of divine providence, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God's plan for our lives?

3. How can we use our positions and influence, like Esther, to advocate for justice and righteousness in our communities today?

4. What role does community play in supporting us through difficult times, as seen in Esther's call for fasting and prayer? How can we cultivate such supportive relationships in our own lives?

5. How does Esther's account encourage us to balance faith and action in our daily walk with God? Can you think of a situation where you need to apply both faith and action?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 3
Like Esther, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced a life-threatening situation and chose to stand firm in their faith, trusting God for deliverance.

Romans 8:28
This verse speaks to God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things for good, which is evident in Esther's account as God orchestrates events to save His people.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, similar to how Esther approached her situation with prayer and fasting.