Mordecai’s Sorrow Plan

It is estimated that there might have been as many as 15 million Jews in the Persian Empire.

Because of the decree, none of them were safe and they did not really have anywhere they could flee.

Even Israel was under King Ahasuerus’ rule, whose kingdom was from India to Ethiopia (1:1)

Mordecai’s Response To The Decree

verses 1-3

Edmund Burke (attributed)

All that is required for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.

Proverbs 24:11–12 ESV

Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter. If you say, “Behold, we did not know this,” does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it, and will he not repay man according to his work?

Wearing sackcloth and ashes and crying publicly signified mourning.

Jacob’s response to losing Joseph (Genesis 37)

Daniel’s actions when he petitioned on behalf of his people (Daniel 9)

King of Nineveh’s response to Jonah’s preaching (Jonah 3)

Mordecai took his mourning to the gate, which is the commercial and legal hub of the city. He was not permitted any close to the palace.

George H Morrison, Scottish preacher

No sackcloth must come within the gates. They [royalty] must have a good time at any cost. They must live their easy and comfortable lives, as if there were no voices calling them.

Modecai Informs Esther Of The Situation

verses 4-8

Esther might have been concerned that Mordecai’s heritage might have been found out if he did not change his appearance.

Or maybe there was fear that she would have been exposed.

Either way, she sent new garments for him to change into

Mordecai’s refusal of the clothes gave him an opportunity to get a message to the queen.

Mordecai explained the situation and gave a copy of the decree to be delivered to Esther

Mordecai Urges Esther To Be Bold

verses 9-17