Esther 2:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Esther 2:20
20 Esther had not yet shewed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him.
Chapter Context
Esther 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, salvation, worship. Written during the Persian period (c. 483-473 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jews in diaspora faced both integration opportunities and threats within the vast Persian Empire.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Esther and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Esther 2:20
20 Esther had not yet shewed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him.
Analysis
Esther had not yet shewed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him. The repetition of Esther's concealment (first stated in v. 10) emphasizes its importance and her continued obedience even after becoming queen. The phrase "Esther did the commandment of Mordecai" (ta'as Ester et-ma'amar Mordekhai, תַּעֲשֶׂה אֶסְתֵּר אֶת־מַאֲמַר מָרְדֳּכָי) uses strong language suggesting authoritative instruction, not mere suggestion. The comparison "like as when she was brought up with him" indicates Esther maintained the habits of obedience and respect formed during her upbringing. This detail proves crucial: her continued responsiveness to Mordecai's guidance will enable their coordinated response when crisis comes (chapter 4). The relationship of trust and obedience established in ordinary times prepared them for extraordinary crisis.
Historical Context
Ancient honor-shame cultures emphasized obedience to parental or guardian authority even into adulthood. Esther's continued deference to Mordecai despite being queen demonstrates cultural values of filial piety and loyalty. Her concealment of Jewish identity remained strategic: premature disclosure might create hostility or complications before God's timing. That she maintained this discretion even after becoming queen—when she might have felt secure enough to reveal her identity—shows remarkable discipline and trust in Mordecai's wisdom. The narrative presents this sustained obedience positively, suggesting the authors viewed it as commendable faithfulness rather than problematic deception.
Reflection
- How does Esther's sustained obedience to Mordecai model the importance of maintaining faithful relationships and habits formed in preparation seasons?
- What does this teach about the strategic nature of wise timing in disclosure versus the importance of eventual truthfulness when circumstances require it?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Esther 2:10