Esther 2:22
And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen; and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Set during Persian king Xerxes I's reign (486-465 BC), when Jewish exiles lived throughout the empire after Cyrus's decree allowed but didn't mandate return. Most Jews remained in Persia, maintaining their identity in diaspora. Palace intrigue and assassination plots were common in Persian court; historical records confirm eunuchs sometimes conspired against kings. Mordecai's position 'in the king's gate' (v. 21) indicates official status, probably as a minor official. That this good deed was recorded in the royal chronicles (v. 23) but initially unrewarded sets up chapter 6's dramatic reversal. The narrative demonstrates God protecting His people even in exile, preparing deliverance before the crisis emerges.
Questions for Reflection
- Do I recognize God's providence in 'ordinary' events, or do I assume life is random coincidence?
- How does understanding God's sovereignty comfort me when facing uncertain circumstances?
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Analysis & Commentary
Mordecai's discovery of Bigthan and Teresh's assassination plot and his reporting it through Esther demonstrates God's sovereign orchestration of events. Though God isn't explicitly mentioned in Esther, His providence is evident: Mordecai 'happened' to overhear, Esther had access to the king, and crucially, this act was recorded but Mordecai went unrewarded (v. 23)—until the pivotal night of 6:1-3. This 'coincidence' becomes the hinge upon which deliverance turns. The Hebrew narrative subtly reveals God working through natural events to accomplish His purposes. Reformed theology emphasizes divine providence: God governs all things for His glory and His people's good (Romans 8:28). Nothing is random; even seemingly insignificant events serve His redemptive plan.