Background and Context:
Esther's plea for her people is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative found in the Book of Esther, a text that is part of the Ketuvim ("Writings") in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The account is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia, a time when the Jewish people were living in exile. Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, becomes queen of Persia, unbeknownst to the king that she is Jewish.

The Threat:
The crisis begins when Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian court, becomes enraged with Mordecai for not bowing to him. In retaliation, Haman devises a plot to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. He persuades King Ahasuerus to issue a decree to destroy, kill, and annihilate all Jews, young and old, women and children, on a single day (Esther 3:13).

Mordecai's Appeal to Esther:
Upon learning of the decree, Mordecai mourns and implores Esther to intercede with the king on behalf of her people. Initially hesitant due to the law that forbids anyone from approaching the king unsummoned under penalty of death, Esther is reminded by Mordecai of her unique position and the possibility that she has come to her royal position "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

Esther's Resolve:
Moved by Mordecai's words, Esther resolves to risk her life to save her people. She instructs Mordecai to gather all the Jews in Susa to fast for three days and nights, while she and her maids do the same. Esther's famous declaration, "If I perish, I perish," (Esther 4:16) underscores her courage and faith.

The Plea:
On the third day, Esther dons her royal robes and approaches the king. Ahasuerus, seeing Esther, extends his golden scepter, sparing her life and inviting her to speak. Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. During the second banquet, Esther reveals her Jewish identity and pleads for her life and the lives of her people, saying, "For we have been sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, killed, and annihilated" (Esther 7:4).

The Outcome:
The king, outraged by Haman's plot, orders Haman to be hanged on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Although the original decree cannot be revoked, Esther and Mordecai are granted the authority to write a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. On the appointed day, the Jews gain victory over their enemies, and the festival of Purim is established to commemorate their deliverance.

Significance:
Esther's plea is a testament to divine providence and the courage required to stand for righteousness. Her account highlights the importance of faith, fasting, and prayer in seeking God's intervention. Esther's bravery and strategic wisdom serve as an enduring example of how God can use individuals in positions of influence to bring about His purposes and protect His people.