Esther 4:10 – “Then she instructed him to say to Mordecai,”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Esther 4:10, we see Esther responding to Mordecai’s urgent message, which was delivered by her servant Hathak. Mordecai had asked Esther to approach King Xerxes and plead for the lives of her people, the Jews, who were facing annihilation under a royal decree. In this verse, Esther begins her reply to Mordecai, sending Hathak back to deliver her message.
At this point in the story, Esther is caught in a very difficult situation. She wants to help her people, but approaching the king without being summoned could result in her death. This verse sets the stage for Esther’s internal struggle as she considers the risks of stepping out in faith to do the right thing.
Historical Context
Esther 4:10 takes place during the reign of King Xerxes, who ruled over the vast Persian Empire. In ancient Persia, the royal court had strict laws about who could approach the king. Anyone who entered the king’s presence without being summoned risked execution, unless the king extended his golden scepter in a sign of favor.
Esther, as queen, had not been summoned by the king for thirty days. This created a dangerous situation for her, as she could not simply walk into the king’s chambers and request an audience. Her Jewish identity was also unknown to most in the court, including the king, which added another layer of complexity to her situation. Esther knew that revealing her identity and making her request could cost her everything.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights a key theological principle: there are moments in life where faith and obedience require courage in the face of fear. Esther was placed in a position of influence, but that position did not shield her from danger. She had to wrestle with the question of whether to stay silent and protect herself or risk her life to do what was right.
This verse also points to the idea of divine providence. While God’s name is never explicitly mentioned in the book of Esther, His hand is evident throughout the story. Esther’s role as queen wasn’t a coincidence—it was part of God’s plan to save His people. In the same way, God places His people in specific situations to act for His purposes, even when the path seems risky or uncertain.
Literary Analysis
From a literary standpoint, this verse marks a turning point in the narrative. Up until now, Esther has been somewhat passive, living in the security of the palace. But Mordecai’s message forces her to confront the crisis facing her people and to make a decision. This moment builds tension in the story, as Esther must now weigh the risks of approaching the king against the potential consequences of doing nothing.
The use of Hathak as a messenger continues to emphasize the separation between Esther and the outside world. She is physically removed from the suffering of her people, but this message from Mordecai brings the crisis directly to her doorstep, forcing her to engage with the reality of the situation.
Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Just as Joshua was called to lead God’s people with courage, Esther is being called to take courageous action, despite the risks.
- Romans 8:31: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” This verse reminds us that when God calls us to act, He is with us, just as He was with Esther as she faced the king.
- James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” Esther’s response shows that she is carefully considering her next steps, and this verse encourages believers to seek wisdom in challenging situations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Esther 4:10 is a reminder that we all face moments in life where we are called to act, even when it feels risky. There are times when we must step out in faith, trusting God to protect and guide us. Like Esther, we may be placed in specific positions or circumstances that allow us to make a difference, and we must be willing to rise to the occasion.
This verse also teaches us about the importance of seeking counsel and wisdom. Esther didn’t act impulsively; she carefully considered the situation and sought guidance from Mordecai. In the same way, when we face difficult decisions, we should seek godly counsel and pray for wisdom before taking action.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He works through people to accomplish His plans. Although God is not explicitly mentioned in this passage, His love for His people is evident in the way He has positioned Esther to be a source of deliverance. God’s love is not passive—He moves in the lives of His people, guiding them to places where they can make a difference.
God’s love is also demonstrated in His patience and care for Esther. He doesn’t force her hand but allows her to work through her fear and doubt. In the same way, God understands our struggles and gently leads us to where we need to be, giving us the courage and strength we need to act in faith.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Esther 4:10 points to Jesus Christ in the way Esther is called to intercede on behalf of her people, risking her life for their salvation. This foreshadows the ultimate act of intercession by Jesus, who not only risked but gave His life to save humanity. Just as Esther was willing to go before the king to plead for the lives of her people, Jesus went before the Father on our behalf, offering Himself as a sacrifice to save us from sin and death (Hebrews 7:25).
Esther’s role as a mediator between her people and the king points forward to Jesus’s role as the mediator between humanity and God (1 Timothy 2:5). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides a way for us to have direct access to God, securing our salvation and demonstrating the greatest act of love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Esther’s willingness to engage with the crisis facing her people challenge us to act in faith when we encounter difficult situations?
- What risks are we willing to take to stand up for what is right, even when it comes at a personal cost?
- How can we seek wisdom and guidance, like Esther, when faced with tough decisions?
- In what ways does Esther’s role as an intercessor reflect Jesus’s ultimate intercession on our behalf?
- How can we trust God’s providence in placing us in specific situations to accomplish His purposes?
Esther 4:10 reminds us that God often calls us to act with courage, even in the face of fear. It challenges us to step out in faith, trusting that God has placed us where we are for a reason. Like Esther, we are called to be instruments of God’s love and justice, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.