Esther 6:1

That night sleep escaped the king; so he ordered the Book of Records, the Chronicles, to be brought in and read to him.

Study Bible

That night
The phrase "that night" is pivotal, marking a divinely orchestrated moment in the narrative. In the Hebrew text, the word for "night" is "לַיְלָה" (laylah), which often signifies a time of vulnerability and divine intervention. This particular night is crucial in the unfolding of God's providential plan for the Jewish people. Historically, nights were often seen as times when God would reveal His will or intervene in human affairs, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Jacob's wrestling with God (Genesis 32:22-32).

the king could not sleep
The inability of the king to sleep is significant, suggesting divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "sleep" is "שֵׁנָה" (shenah), and its negation here implies a restlessness that is beyond mere insomnia. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were often seen as semi-divine figures, yet here, the king's sleeplessness underscores his humanity and the sovereignty of God over earthly rulers. This moment of insomnia sets the stage for a pivotal turn in the narrative, highlighting God's unseen hand at work.

so he ordered
The king's decision to order the reading of the chronicles is a direct result of his sleeplessness. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which means "to say" or "to command." This action, seemingly mundane, is laden with divine purpose. In the broader biblical narrative, God often uses ordinary decisions to fulfill His extraordinary plans. The king's command is a catalyst for the revelation of Mordecai's loyalty, which had been previously overlooked.

the book of the chronicles
The "book of the chronicles" refers to the official records of the Persian Empire, known in Hebrew as "סֵפֶר הַזִּכְרוֹנוֹת" (sefer ha-zikronot). These records were detailed accounts of the king's reign and significant events. Archaeologically, such chronicles were common in ancient empires, serving as both historical records and propaganda tools. The choice of this particular book is divinely orchestrated, as it contains the account of Mordecai's unrewarded service, which becomes crucial to the narrative.

the record of his reign
This phrase emphasizes the personal nature of the chronicles, focusing on the king's reign. The Hebrew word "דִּבְרֵי" (divrei) means "words" or "matters," indicating that these were the documented affairs of the king's rule. Historically, Persian kings kept meticulous records, which were used to ensure loyalty and reward service. The reading of these records at this moment is a divine setup for the recognition of Mordecai, aligning with the biblical theme of God's justice and timing.

to be brought in and read to him
The act of bringing in and reading the chronicles signifies the king's desire for distraction or insight during his sleeplessness. The Hebrew verb "לְהָבִיא" (le-havi) means "to bring," and "לִקְרוֹא" (likro) means "to read." This action, though seemingly routine, is orchestrated by God to bring about His purposes. In the biblical narrative, reading often precedes revelation or action, as seen in the public reading of the Law in Nehemiah 8. Here, the reading leads to the revelation of Mordecai's loyalty, setting the stage for the deliverance of the Jewish people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. His sleepless night becomes a pivotal moment in the account of Esther.

2. The Book of the Chronicles
A record of the king's reign, which included significant events and deeds. It was read to the king during his sleepless night.

3. Mordecai
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, Mordecai's earlier act of loyalty is recorded in the chronicles, setting the stage for his eventual honor.

4. Susa (Shushan)
The capital of the Persian Empire where these events took place.

5. Divine Providence
The unseen hand of God orchestrating events, as seen in the king's insomnia leading to the reading of the chronicles.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in the Mundane
Even seemingly trivial events, like a sleepless night, can be used by God to fulfill His purposes. Trust that God is at work in the details of our lives.

The Power of Remembrance
The chronicles served as a reminder of past deeds. Reflecting on God's past faithfulness can encourage us in present circumstances.

Divine Timing
God's timing is perfect. Mordecai's reward came at the exact right moment, reminding us to be patient and trust in God's timing for our lives.

Faithfulness in Obscurity
Mordecai's earlier act of loyalty was initially overlooked but later rewarded. Our faithfulness, even when unnoticed, is seen by God and will be honored in His time.

The Role of Restlessness
Sometimes, God uses restlessness to draw our attention to His plans. Be attentive to what God might be revealing during times of discomfort or sleeplessness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the king's sleepless night demonstrate God's providence in the account of Esther, and how can we see God's hand in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the reading of the chronicles serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness, and how can we apply this practice in our spiritual walk?

3. How does Mordecai's eventual recognition encourage us to remain faithful in our duties, even when they seem unnoticed?

4. What are some examples in your life where God's timing was evident, and how did it impact your faith?

5. How can we use moments of restlessness or discomfort to seek God's guidance and align ourselves with His will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt after interpreting Pharaoh's dreams parallels Mordecai's rise after the king's sleepless night, both demonstrating God's providence.

Daniel 6
Daniel's deliverance from the lion's den shows God's protection and timing, similar to how God orchestrates events in Esther.

Psalm 121
This psalm speaks of God as the one who never slumbers, highlighting His constant vigilance over His people, akin to His providential care in Esther.