Esther 2:5

KJV

[Now] in Shushan the palace there was a certain Jew, whose name [was] Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite;

KJV (with Strong's)

Now in Shushan {H7800} the palace {H1002} there was a certain {H376} Jew {H3064}, whose name {H8034} was Mordecai {H4782}, the son {H1121} of Jair {H2971}, the son {H1121} of Shimei {H8096}, the son {H1121} of Kish {H7027}, a Benjamite {H1145};

Complete Jewish Bible

There was in Shushan the capital a man who was a Jew, whose name was Mordekhai the son of Ya'ir, the son of Shim'i, the son of Kish, a Binyamini.

Berean Standard Bible

Now there was at the citadel of Susa a Jewish man from the tribe of Benjamin named Mordecai son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish.

American Standard Version

There was a certain Jew in Shushan the palace, whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Esther 2:5 introduces Mordecai, a pivotal Jewish character residing in Shushan, the Persian capital. This verse establishes his ethnic and tribal identity as a Benjamite, placing him geographically and genealogically within the narrative. It subtly sets the stage for his significant role in the unfolding events, highlighting the presence of God's chosen people within the diaspora and hinting at the providential hand that will guide the story.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Esther 2:5 immediately follows the decree for a new queen, a search initiated after Queen Vashti's deposition in [Esther 1](/esther/1 "Esther 1 - Vashti's Deposition and the Search for a New Queen"). The narrative shifts from the king's court and his advisors to introduce the specific Jewish community in Susa, particularly focusing on Mordecai and, subsequently, Esther. This verse serves as the initial introduction of the protagonists, providing their background before Esther is brought into the king's palace. It is a foundational verse that establishes the personal connection through which the broader story of the Jewish people's deliverance will unfold, moving from the decree of the king to the specific individuals who will be instrumental in its outcome.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Shushan, also known as Susa, was one of the four capital cities of the vast Persian Empire, particularly favored by King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I, who reigned from 486-465 BC). Its mention signifies the seat of imperial power, underscoring that Mordecai, a Jew, lived in close proximity to the highest authority. The identification of Mordecai as "a certain Jew" and "a Benjamite" is crucial. Following the Babylonian exile, many Jews remained in the Persian Empire, forming a significant diaspora community. Their tribal affiliations, though less politically distinct than in pre-exilic times, still held cultural and religious significance, connecting them to their ancestral heritage and the promises made to Abraham. The reference to Benjamin might also subtly evoke the lineage of King Saul, the first king of Israel, who was also a Benjamite, adding a layer of historical resonance to Mordecai's character.
* **Key Themes:** This introductory verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Esther. Firstly, it subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Providence**, even though God's name is conspicuously absent from the entire book. Mordecai's strategic placement in the capital city, a seemingly ordinary detail, is revealed to be part of God's unseen, sovereign plan to protect His people. Secondly, it marks the **Introduction of a Key Figure**, signaling Mordecai's importance as a central actor whose wisdom, loyalty, and courage will be instrumental in the survival of the Jewish people. His character will serve as a moral compass and a catalyst for action. Thirdly, the verse highlights the theme of **Identity in Diaspora**. Despite living in a foreign land under foreign rule, Mordecai's Jewish and Benjamite identity is clearly stated, emphasizing the enduring heritage and distinctiveness of God's chosen people, even when dispersed. This theme resonates with other post-exilic books like [Ezra](/ezra/1 "Ezra 1 - Return from Exile") and [Nehemiah](/nehemiah/1 "Nehemiah 1 - Nehemiah's Prayer for Jerusalem"), which also deal with the challenges and preservation of Jewish identity away from the Promised Land.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shushan (Hebrew, _Shushan_):** This refers to Susa, one of the four capital cities of the Persian Empire. Its mention immediately establishes the setting as the heart of imperial power, far from Jerusalem. It signifies a place of political intrigue and significant events, emphasizing the vastness of the empire and the reach of its decrees, which will directly impact the Jewish community.
* **Mordecai (Hebrew, מָרְדֳּכַי, _Mordekhay_):** The name Mordecai is likely derived from Marduk, the chief god of Babylon. This seemingly pagan name for a Jew suggests a degree of cultural assimilation or influence from the Babylonian and Persian environments. However, despite his name, his actions throughout the book unequivocally demonstrate his unwavering loyalty to his Jewish heritage and people, highlighting the tension and navigation of identity within the diaspora.
* **Benjamite (Hebrew, בִּנְיָמִי, _Binyamini_):** This tribal designation connects Mordecai to the tribe of Benjamin, historically part of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. This lineage is significant for several reasons: it links him to the first king of Israel, Saul (whose father was also named Kish, as mentioned in [1 Samuel 9:1](/1_samuel/9-1 "1 Samuel 9:1 - Saul's Lineage")), and it places him within the remnant of Israel that maintained its distinct identity even in exile. It underscores his deep roots within the covenant community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now in Shushan the palace":** This phrase immediately sets the geographical and political stage. Shushan, or Susa, was a royal city and administrative center of the vast Persian Empire, indicating that the events to follow are not peripheral but occur at the very heart of imperial power, directly influencing the fate of a dispersed people.
* **"there was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai":** This introduces the first of the two main Jewish protagonists. The phrase "a certain Jew" emphasizes his distinct ethnic and religious identity within the foreign setting, immediately signaling that the narrative will focus on the experiences of God's people in exile. Mordecai's name, while possibly reflecting Persian influence, will become synonymous with faithfulness and strategic action.
* **"the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite;":** This detailed genealogy establishes Mordecai's lineage and tribal affiliation. Tracing his ancestry back through several generations to Kish, a Benjamite, firmly roots him within the covenant history of Israel. This tribal identity is not merely a historical detail but underscores his connection to the promises and heritage of God's chosen people, even as they live in a foreign land.

#### Literary Devices
Esther 2:5 employs several key literary devices. **Introduction** is paramount, as the verse serves to formally present Mordecai, a character whose actions will drive much of the plot. His identity as "a certain Jew" immediately establishes the ethnic and religious stakes of the narrative. The precise geographical detail of "Shushan the palace" uses **Setting** to ground the story in a specific, powerful location, emphasizing the proximity of the Jewish exiles to the imperial throne. Furthermore, the inclusion of Mordecai's **Genealogy** ("the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite") is a form of **Characterization**, providing depth and historical context to his identity. This genealogical detail also subtly employs **Allusion**, specifically to King Saul, whose father was also Kish and who was a Benjamite ([1 Samuel 9:1](/1_samuel/9-1 "1 Samuel 9:1 - Saul's Lineage")), hinting at a potential leadership role or a connection to Israel's past kingship, even in a time of exile.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Esther 2:5, in its seemingly simple introduction of Mordecai, subtly lays the groundwork for the profound theme of God's unseen providence. Though God's name is never mentioned in the book of Esther, His sovereign hand is evident in the strategic positioning of individuals like Mordecai in places of influence, even within a pagan empire. This verse reminds us that God works through ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, often orchestrating events behind the scenes to fulfill His purposes and preserve His covenant people. Mordecai's presence in Shushan is not accidental but divinely appointed, setting the stage for his crucial role in the deliverance of the Jews. It speaks to the faithfulness of God to His promises, even when His people are in exile and seemingly abandoned.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works for Good")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord's Counsel Stands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther 2:5 invites us to consider the significance of our own placement in life. Just as Mordecai, a seemingly ordinary Jew, was strategically located in the heart of the Persian Empire, we too are positioned by God in specific families, communities, workplaces, and nations for His purposes. This verse encourages us to recognize that our identity in Christ is not diminished by our circumstances or geographical location, but rather, it empowers us to be agents of God's kingdom wherever we are. It challenges us to live faithfully and discerningly, understanding that even the mundane details of our lives can be part of God's grand design for His glory and the good of others. We are called to be vigilant, to uphold our spiritual heritage, and to be ready to act when God calls, trusting that He is at work even when His hand is not overtly visible.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I see myself "positioned" by God in my current life circumstances?**
* **How does Mordecai's identity as "a certain Jew" in a foreign land encourage me to embrace my identity in Christ wherever I am?**
* **What small, seemingly insignificant details in my life might God be using to prepare me for a larger purpose?**

### FAQ
**Why is Mordecai's lineage, specifically being a Benjamite, important?**

Answer: Mordecai's lineage as a Benjamite is significant for several reasons. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin was part of the Southern Kingdom of Judah and had a unique place in Israel's history, producing figures like King Saul, the first king of Israel. The mention of his ancestor Kish, which was also King Saul's father ([1 Samuel 9:1](/1_samuel/9-1 "1 Samuel 9:1 - Saul's Father Kish")), might subtly allude to a connection with Israel's royal past or a foreshadowing of Mordecai's own leadership role in protecting his people. Theologically, it emphasizes that even in exile, the distinct tribal identities of God's people were maintained, reinforcing their heritage and the continuity of God's covenant promises to Israel, even when they were far from their homeland.

**What does "Shushan the palace" tell us about the setting of the story?**

Answer: "Shushan the palace" (Susa) was one of the major capital cities of the Persian Empire, particularly favored by King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). Its mention immediately establishes that the events of the book of Esther unfold at the very center of imperial power. This is crucial because it highlights the vulnerability of the Jewish people, who are subjects of a powerful foreign king, but also underscores the incredible providence of God, who places His agents like Mordecai and Esther in close proximity to the throne. This strategic setting allows for the dramatic interplay between imperial decrees and divine intervention that defines the narrative, demonstrating that God's plan can unfold even within the most powerful human systems.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther 2:5, by introducing Mordecai, a Benjamite in Shushan, subtly foreshadows the greater work of Christ. Mordecai, though a seemingly ordinary Jew, is strategically placed by divine providence in the heart of the empire, becoming an intercessor and deliverer for his people. This mirrors Christ, who, though appearing as a humble carpenter from Nazareth, was divinely appointed and strategically positioned in human history as the ultimate deliverer. Just as Mordecai's lineage connects him to Israel's past (the tribe of Benjamin, King Saul), Christ's lineage connects Him to the royal line of David ([Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")) and the very promises of God for salvation. Mordecai's role as one who "sits at the king's gate" ([Esther 2:19](/esther/2-19 "Esther 2:19 - Mordecai at the Gate")) and ultimately intercedes for his people, even at great personal risk, points to Christ, who, being God, humbled Himself to become human, dwelling among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is our ultimate High Priest and Advocate, who continually intercedes for us before the Father's throne ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")). Mordecai's hidden influence and eventual triumph over Haman's plot reflect God's sovereign plan of redemption, culminating in Christ's victory over sin and death, securing eternal salvation for all who believe ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Esther 5:1

¶ Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on [her] royal [apparel], and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

1 Samuel 9:1

¶ Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name [was] Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.

Esther 10:3

For Mordecai the Jew [was] next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.

2 Samuel 16:5

¶ And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name [was] Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came.

Esther 2:3

And let the king appoint officers in all the provinces of his kingdom, that they may gather together all the fair young virgins unto Shushan the palace, to the house of the women, unto the custody of Hege the king's chamberlain, keeper of the women; and let their things for purification be given [them]:

Esther 3:2

And all the king's servants, that [were] in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai bowed not, nor did [him] reverence.

Esther 3:6

And he thought scorn to lay hands on Mordecai alone; for they had shewed him the people of Mordecai: wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that [were] throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, [even] the people of Mordecai.