Esther 4:7

and Mordecai told him all that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money that Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury in order to destroy the Jews.

Study Bible

and Mordecai told him
Mordecai, a central figure in the Book of Esther, is a Jew living in exile in Persia. His role as a communicator and protector of his people is crucial. The Hebrew root for "told" is "נָגַד" (nagad), which means to declare or make known. This highlights Mordecai's responsibility to inform and warn others, a role that is consistent with the prophetic tradition in the Hebrew Scriptures. His actions are a reminder of the importance of speaking truth and standing up for justice, even in the face of great personal risk.

everything that had happened to him
This phrase encompasses the series of events that have led to the current crisis, including Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman and the subsequent decree to annihilate the Jews. The Hebrew word for "everything" is "כָּל" (kol), indicating the totality of the situation. Mordecai's recounting of events is not just a personal narrative but a testimony to the unfolding of God's providence. It serves as a reminder that God is sovereign over history, and even in dire circumstances, His purposes will prevail.

as well as the exact amount of money
The specificity of the "exact amount" underscores the calculated and malicious intent behind Haman's plot. The Hebrew term for "exact" is "פָּרָשׁ" (parash), which implies a detailed and deliberate plan. This detail highlights the gravity of the threat against the Jewish people and the extent of Haman's influence. It serves as a call to vigilance and discernment, reminding believers of the need to be aware of the spiritual and moral battles that surround them.

that Haman had promised to pay
Haman, the antagonist in the story, is portrayed as a man driven by pride and hatred. The Hebrew root for "promised" is "אָמַר" (amar), which can also mean to say or declare. This suggests that Haman's promise is not just a financial transaction but a declaration of his intent to destroy the Jews. It is a stark reminder of the destructive power of sin and the lengths to which evil will go to achieve its ends. For Christians, it is a call to trust in God's justice and to stand firm against the forces of darkness.

into the royal treasury
The mention of the "royal treasury" indicates the involvement of the Persian empire in Haman's plot. The Hebrew word for "treasury" is "אוֹצָר" (otsar), which refers to a storehouse or repository. This highlights the systemic nature of the threat and the complicity of those in power. It serves as a reminder of the need for integrity and righteousness in leadership and governance. For believers, it is an encouragement to pray for those in authority and to seek justice and righteousness in all spheres of life.

for the destruction of the Jews
The phrase "destruction of the Jews" is a chilling reminder of the existential threat faced by God's people. The Hebrew word for "destruction" is "אַבֵּד" (abed), which means to perish or be destroyed. This highlights the severity of the situation and the urgency of the need for deliverance. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face and the assurance that God is a refuge and strength for His people. In the face of persecution and trials, Christians are called to trust in God's deliverance and to stand firm in their faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, and the cousin and guardian of Esther. He is a key figure in the Jewish community and plays a crucial role in the events of the Book of Esther.

2. Haman
The antagonist of the account, an Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire. He harbors a deep hatred for the Jews and plots their destruction.

3. Esther
The Jewish queen of Persia, who is initially unaware of Haman's plot. She is Mordecai's cousin and becomes a pivotal figure in saving her people.

4. Susa
The capital city of the Persian Empire, where the events of the Book of Esther take place.

5. The Royal Treasury
The financial repository of the Persian Empire, which Haman intends to enrich as part of his plot against the Jews.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Providence
Despite the absence of direct mention of God in the Book of Esther, His hand is evident in the orchestration of events. Trust in God's unseen work in our lives.

Courage in the Face of Injustice
Mordecai's actions demonstrate the importance of standing up against evil, even when it is risky. We are called to be courageous in confronting injustice.

The Power of Influence
Mordecai's influence on Esther highlights the impact one person can have in God's plan. Consider how God might use your position or influence for His purposes.

The Cost of Hatred
Haman's willingness to pay for the destruction of the Jews shows the destructive nature of hatred. Reflect on the importance of love and forgiveness in our relationships.

Intercession and Advocacy
Mordecai's communication with Esther is a form of intercession for his people. We are encouraged to advocate and intercede for others in prayer and action.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mordecai's response to Haman's plot demonstrate faith and courage, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing challenges?

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?

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

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation where you needed to stand up against wrongdoing. How did your faith guide your actions, and what was the outcome?

5. Considering the destructive nature of Haman's hatred, how can we cultivate a heart of forgiveness and love, even towards those who may oppose us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that He will bless those who bless him and curse those who curse him. This connects to the overarching theme of divine protection over the Jewish people.

Proverbs 21:1
The heart of a king is in the hand of the Lord, illustrating God's sovereignty over the events in Esther, including the king's decisions.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things together for good for those who love Him, which is evident in how the events unfold in Esther.