Esther 4:13

Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews.

Then Mordecai {H4782} commanded {H559} to answer {H7725} Esther {H635}, Think {H1819} not with thyself {H5315} that thou shalt escape {H4422} in the king's {H4428} house {H1004}, more than all the Jews {H3064}.

asked them to give Ester this answer: "Don't suppose that merely because you happen to be in the royal palace you will escape any more than the other Jews.

he sent back to her this reply: “Do not imagine that because you are in the king’s palace you alone will escape the fate of all the Jews.

Then Mordecai bade them return answer unto Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king’s house, more than all the Jews.

Commentary

Context

Esther 4:13 captures a pivotal moment in the book of Esther. Following Haman's wicked decree to annihilate all Jews throughout the vast Persian Empire, Mordecai is in deep distress. Queen Esther, unaware of the full extent of the danger initially, is informed by Mordecai and then faces a terrifying dilemma. Approaching the king without being summoned was a capital offense, punishable by death unless the king extended his golden scepter. Esther, initially hesitant, conveys her fear to Mordecai via Hathach (Esther 4:11). This verse is Mordecai's powerful response, a stark reminder to Esther of the grave reality facing her and her people.

Key Themes

  • Shared Destiny and Solidarity: Mordecai's words shatter any illusion Esther might have had of personal safety due to her royal position. He forcefully reminds her that the decree applies to all Jews, and her proximity to the king would not guarantee her escape. Her fate was inextricably linked to that of her people.
  • Divine Providence and Purpose: Although not explicitly stated in this verse, Mordecai's subsequent declaration in Esther 4:14 ("who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?") strongly implies a divine hand in Esther's elevation. This verse sets the stage for Esther to embrace her God-given purpose.
  • Courage and Responsibility: Mordecai challenges Esther to move beyond fear and recognize her unique responsibility. Her position, rather than offering sanctuary, demanded courageous action on behalf of others. It highlights the moral imperative to use one's influence for justice and deliverance.
  • No Neutrality in Crisis: The verse implicitly teaches that in times of severe crisis for a community, there is no true neutrality. Inaction or an attempt at self-preservation ultimately leads to the same fate as those suffering.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape" is a direct and unvarnished warning. The Hebrew verb for "escape" (פָּלַט, palat) means to slip away, to be delivered, or to survive. Mordecai's blunt assessment underscores the futility of Esther's hope for an individual deliverance apart from her community. Her life, like all other Jews, was under threat by Haman's universal decree.

Practical Application

Esther 4:13 serves as a timeless call to awareness and action.

  • Recognizing Interconnectedness: We are often more connected to our communities, families, or even humanity than we realize. The suffering of one part can affect the whole.
  • Using Influence for Good: Like Esther, we all have spheres of influence, whether large or small. This verse encourages us to use our position, resources, or voice to stand up for justice, protect the vulnerable, or speak truth, rather than retreating into complacency or self-preservation.
  • Overcoming Fear with Responsibility: While fear is a natural human emotion, Mordecai's words challenge us not to let fear paralyze us, especially when others are depending on us. True courage often means acting despite fear.
  • No Escape from Shared Consequences: In many situations, attempting to isolate oneself from collective problems or injustices is ultimately futile. This verse reminds us that true security often comes through solidarity and collective action.
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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 24:10

    ¶ [If] thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength [is] small.

  • Proverbs 24:12

    If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider [it]? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth [not] he know [it]? and shall [not] he render to [every] man according to his works?

  • Philippians 2:30

    Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

  • John 12:25

    He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

  • Hebrews 12:3

    For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

  • Matthew 16:24

    ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

  • Matthew 16:25

    For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.