Esther 2:10

Authorized King James Version

Esther had not shewed her people nor her kindred: for Mordecai had charged her that she should not shew it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תַגִּֽיד׃

H5046

had not shewed

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

אֶסְתֵּ֔ר

H635

Esther

ester, the jewish heroine

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

עַמָּ֖הּ

H5971

her people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מֽוֹלַדְתָּ֑הּ

H4138

nor her kindred

nativity (plural birth-place); by implication, lineage, native country; also offspring, family

כִּ֧י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מָרְדֳּכַ֛י

H4782

for Mordecai

mordecai, an israelite

#10

צִוָּ֥ה

H6680

had charged

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

#11

עָלֶ֖יהָ

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#12

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#13

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#14

תַגִּֽיד׃

H5046

had not shewed

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Esther Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Esther chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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