Esther 2:23
And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings maintained detailed chronicles recording significant events, as documented in biblical and extra-biblical sources (1 Kings 14:19; Ezra 4:15; Esther 10:2). Persian royal annals documented both threats to the king and servants' notable deeds. The execution by "hanging on a tree" might indicate impalement (a common Persian execution method) or hanging. Either way, it served as public warning against treason. That Mordecai went unrewarded initially seems unusual—ancient monarchs typically rewarded those who saved their lives. This oversight, though, proved providentially perfect: the later discovery and reward came precisely when needed to counter Haman's plot and elevate Mordecai. The delayed gratification served God's larger purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Mordecai's unrewarded faithfulness teach about serving without immediate recognition, trusting God's providence for proper timing?
- What does this passage reveal about God's orchestration of details—recorded chronicles, overlooked good deeds, perfect timing—to accomplish His purposes?
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Analysis & Commentary
And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king. The investigation confirmed the conspiracy, resulting in both chamberlains' execution by hanging (talah, תָּלָה, literally "impalement" or "hanging on a stake/tree"). The crucial detail: "it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king" (yikkatev be-sepher divrei ha-yamim lifnei hamelekh, יִכָּתֵב בְּסֵפֶר דִּבְרֵי־הַיָּמִים לִפְנֵי הַמֶּלֶךְ). This record proved providentially essential. Notably, Mordecai apparently received no immediate reward—an oversight that God's providence would remedy at precisely the right moment (6:1-3). The unrewarded good deed, officially recorded but forgotten, becomes the hinge of the entire narrative. God's providence operates through such overlooked details, positioning pieces on the board long before the crisis emerges.