What happensPermalink
Jews throughout the kingdom mourn the genocidal edict. Esther learns of it from Mordecai, who urges her to plead with the king on behalf of the Jews. Esther objects that to do so may lead to her death, but Mordecai responds that perhaps Esther has been put in her position specifically for this purpose. Esther, through Mordecai, proclaims a fast for all Jews in Susa, and promises to try.
Why it mattersPermalink
The central themes of Esther come together in this chapter. Mordecai expresses confidence that the Jews will be delivered, while urging Esther to act courageously in the position she has been given. The chapter demonstrates both God’s hidden providence and human responsibility, as Esther risks her life to save her people.
Key versePermalink
“For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”