Esther 4:15

KJV

Then Esther bade [them] return Mordecai [this answer],

KJV (with Strong's)

Then Esther {H635} bade {H559} them return {H7725} Mordecai {H4782} this answer,

Complete Jewish Bible

Ester had them return this answer to Mordekhai:

Berean Standard Bible

Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai:

American Standard Version

Then Esther bade them return answer unto Mordecai,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Esther 4:15 marks a profoundly pivotal moment in the book of Esther, signifying Queen Esther's decisive shift from initial apprehension to resolute action. Following Mordecai's urgent and challenging appeal regarding Haman's genocidal decree against the Jewish people, this concise verse encapsulates Esther's processing of the grave situation and her firm resolve to respond, setting in motion the courageous plan that will ultimately lead to the deliverance of her people and the dramatic reversal of their impending doom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a crucial exchange between Mordecai and Esther. Mordecai, having learned of Haman's decree to annihilate all Jews throughout the Persian empire (detailed in [Esther 3:13](/esther/3-13 "Haman's Decree to Annihilate the Jews")), sent a dire message to Esther. Esther's initial response, conveyed through Hathach, expressed profound fear and hesitation, citing the life-threatening danger of approaching the king unsummoned ([Esther 4:11](/esther/4-11 "Esther's Fear of the King's Law")). However, Mordecai's powerful and challenging rhetorical question, "who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" ([Esther 4:14](/esther/4-14 "Mordecai's Providential Challenge")), clearly pierced through her fear and resonated deeply with her sense of destiny and responsibility. Esther 4:15 thus functions as the critical turning point, indicating that Esther has fully absorbed Mordecai's message, overcome her personal trepidation, and is now ready to formulate her definitive answer and strategic plan of action, which is then explicitly revealed in the subsequent verses, particularly her famous declaration in [Esther 4:16](/esther/4-16 "Esther's Courageous Resolve").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds within the vast and centralized Persian Empire during the reign of King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I, 486-465 BC), with the royal court situated in the city of Susa. Persian law, as depicted in the book, was absolute and unchangeable once issued ([Esther 1:19](/esther/1-19 "Persian Law is Irrevocable") and [Esther 8:8](/esther/8-8 "The King's Decree Cannot Be Revoked")). This legal rigidity underscored the immense personal risk Esther faced by approaching the king without a summons, a transgression punishable by death unless the king graciously extended his golden scepter ([Esther 4:11](/esther/4-11 "The Golden Scepter of Mercy")). Communication within the royal court was highly formal and often indirect, relying on trusted intermediaries like Hathach, the king's chamberlain, who served as a conduit between Esther and Mordecai ([Esther 4:5](/esther/4-5 "Hathach, Esther's Messenger")). Esther's "bidding" or commanding a return message in this verse signifies her exercise of royal authority within these strict protocols, even as she prepares for a perilous act of defiance against them.
* **Key Themes:** Esther 4:15 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Esther. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Providence**, even though God is not explicitly mentioned; Esther's position "for such a time as this" ([Esther 4:14](/esther/4-14 "Divine Appointment")) strongly implies a divine hand guiding events and placing individuals in strategic positions for His purposes. The verse also marks a crucial moment in the theme of **Courage and Self-Sacrifice**, as Esther moves from personal preservation to a willingness to risk her life for her people, embodying the essence of selfless leadership. It underscores the theme of **Leadership and Responsibility**, showing Esther embracing her royal role to protect her vulnerable community, recognizing that her unique status carried a unique burden. Finally, it highlights the importance of **Decisive Action** in the face of grave danger, serving as the immediate precursor to the strategic steps Esther takes to thwart Haman's wicked plot, a plot rooted in deep-seated anti-Semitism that echoes throughout history, as seen in the detailed machinations of [Esther 3](/esther/3 "Haman's Plot Against the Jews").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Esther (Hebrew, _ʼEçtêr'_):** (H635) The name of the Jewish heroine, derived from Persian, likely meaning "star." In this verse, the explicit mention of "Esther" as the subject of the action emphasizes her personal agency and transformation. It is *she*, the queen, who is now making a decisive choice, stepping into her destiny as the central figure in her people's deliverance. Her name here signifies not just her identity but her pivotal role in the unfolding narrative.
* **bade (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** (H559) This verb, often translated "to say" or "to speak," carries significant weight in contexts of authority, frequently implying "to command," "to declare," or "to instruct." In Esther 4:15, its use highlights Esther's shift from a passive recipient of information to an active agent. It's not merely that she "said" something, but that she "commanded" or "instructed" a specific response to be delivered back to Mordecai, indicating her decisive engagement with the crisis and her assumption of leadership.
* **return (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** (H7725) A primitive root meaning "to turn back," "to restore," or "to retrieve." In this context, it refers to the act of sending a messenger back to Mordecai with a reply. This seemingly simple word underscores the completion of the communication loop and the initiation of Esther's counter-strategy. The command to "return" signifies that the message has been received, processed, and an answer is now being dispatched, marking the transition from Mordecai's plea to Esther's action.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Esther bade [them]":** This opening phrase signifies a pivotal turning point in the narrative. The adverb "Then" (וַתֹּאמֶר, _vatomer_ - "and she said/commanded") indicates an immediate and decisive consequence of Mordecai's powerful challenge in the preceding verse ([Esther 4:14](/esther/4-14 "Mordecai's Challenge")). Esther is no longer merely contemplating or hesitating; she is actively issuing an instruction. The bracketed "them" (implied in the KJV translation, referring to her attendants or messengers, likely Hathach) underscores the formal and indirect nature of royal communication, yet Esther's command demonstrates her firm authority within these protocols.
* **"return Mordecai [this answer],"**: This clause specifies the recipient and the nature of Esther's instruction. She is commanding her messengers to go back to Mordecai and deliver a specific "answer." While the content of the answer is not provided in this verse, the very act of formulating and sending a reply indicates that Esther has processed the gravity of the situation, accepted the challenge, and is now ready to articulate her plan. It is a moment of profound commitment and resolve, signaling her readiness to move from personal fear to courageous, strategic action for the sake of her people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse, though remarkably brief, employs several significant literary devices that amplify its impact. Most prominently, it functions as a **Turning Point**, marking the precise moment Esther pivots from her initial fear and hesitation (as seen in [Esther 4:11](/esther/4-11 "Esther's Hesitation")) to a firm resolve to act. This is powerfully reinforced by **Foreshadowing**, as the simple act of "bidding" a return message strongly hints at the courageous and strategic plan that will unfold in the subsequent verses, building significant narrative tension and anticipation. The use of **Ellipsis** (the bracketed "them" and "this answer" in the KJV) creates a sense of immediate action and directness, focusing the reader's attention on Esther's command rather than the specific details of the communication channel or the content of her reply, which is deliberately withheld to heighten suspense. Finally, the verse functions as a subtle yet powerful instance of **Character Development**, showcasing Esther's transformation from a seemingly passive queen to a determined, self-sacrificing leader who fully embraces her God-given role.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Esther 4:15, while brief and devoid of explicit divine reference, serves as a powerful theological pivot, demonstrating the critical role of human decision and courage in the unfolding of divine providence. Even without direct mention of God, Esther's shift from fear to resolute action is implicitly guided by a higher purpose, aligning with the broader biblical theme that God often works through the choices and actions of His people, especially in times of crisis. This verse underscores that faith is not merely passive trust but often requires active, courageous obedience and strategic engagement with challenging circumstances. It highlights the principle that moments of personal commitment can have far-reaching, redemptive consequences for an entire community, echoing the call to step into one's God-given purpose, even when it demands significant personal sacrifice. Esther's decision here is a profound testament to the power of one individual's courageous "yes" in the face of overwhelming odds, a "yes" that God uses to bring about salvation.

* [Judges 6:14](/judges/6-14 "Gideon's Call to Action")
* [Luke 9:23](/luke/9-23 "The Call to Self-Denial")
* [James 2:17](/james/2-17 "Faith Without Works Is Dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther 4:15 offers a profound lesson on the necessity of decisive action in the face of daunting challenges. It reminds us that after a period of contemplation, prayer, or receiving wise counsel, there comes a moment when a firm decision must be made. Esther's "bidding" of a return message is not just a communication; it is an act of profound commitment, signifying that she has weighed the risks, embraced her calling, and is prepared to act. In our own lives, we often encounter "such a time as this" moments—opportunities or crises where our response can significantly impact ourselves and others. This verse encourages us to move beyond hesitation and to step into our God-given roles with courage and resolve, understanding that even the seemingly small act of making a firm decision can set in motion a powerful chain of events for good. It calls us to consider what "answer" we are prepared to send back to the challenges or opportunities God places before us, particularly when the welfare of others, or the advancement of God's kingdom, is at stake. It is a reminder that our obedience, though costly, can be the very instrument God uses for His redemptive purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Mordecai moments" in your life have called for a decisive "answer" or action, demanding you step out of your comfort zone?**
* **How do you typically move from contemplation and prayer to firm commitment when faced with a significant challenge or a call to serve?**
* **What fears or hesitations might prevent you from acting decisively, and how can you lean on God's strength to overcome them?**
* **In what ways might your "answer" to a difficult situation impact not only yourself but also your community, your family, or those around you who are vulnerable?**

### FAQ

**Why is Esther 4:15 considered a "pivotal" verse if it's so short and doesn't contain Esther's full answer?**

Answer: Esther 4:15 is pivotal precisely because of what it signifies, rather than what it explicitly states. It marks the internal and volitional turning point for Queen Esther. Prior to this, she was hesitant and fearful, citing the danger of approaching the king unsummoned ([Esther 4:11](/esther/4-11 "Esther's Fear of the King's Law")). Mordecai's powerful challenge in [Esther 4:14](/esther/4-14 "Mordecai's Providential Challenge") forced her to confront her unique position and responsibility. This verse, "Then Esther bade [them] return Mordecai [this answer]," indicates that she has processed Mordecai's words, overcome her initial fear, and made the conscious, courageous decision to act. It's the moment of commitment before the courageous declaration in [Esther 4:16](/esther/4-16 "Esther's Famous Declaration"), making it the crucial psychological and narrative hinge of the entire story. Without this decisive internal shift, the subsequent events of deliverance would not have occurred.

**Does the Bible often use such brief verses to convey significant shifts in character or plot?**

Answer: Yes, the Bible frequently employs concise language to convey profound shifts, especially in narrative books. Often, a short verse or even a single phrase can indicate a major turning point, a change of heart, or a decisive action that propels the plot forward with dramatic impact. For example, in the story of Abraham, [Genesis 22:3](/genesis/22-3 "Abraham's Obedience") states, "And Abraham rose up early in the morning..." after God's command to sacrifice Isaac, conveying immediate and resolute obedience without detailing his internal struggle. Similarly, in the New Testament, [Matthew 4:20](/matthew/4-20 "Disciples Follow Jesus") simply says of Peter and Andrew, "And they straightway left their nets, and followed him," capturing their immediate and life-altering decision to abandon their former lives. These brief statements often carry immense weight, inviting the reader to understand the depth of the character's commitment or the gravity of the moment through concise yet powerful narration.

**What does the phrase "bade [them] return" tell us about ancient communication and royal protocol?**

Answer: The phrase "bade [them] return" (KJV) or "sent back" (NIV) highlights the reliance on messengers for communication in ancient times, especially within royal courts, and the strict adherence to protocol. Direct, face-to-face communication with a queen, particularly for sensitive matters, was likely restricted to a very select few, and even then, formal channels were observed. Sensitive messages, particularly those involving life-or-death situations, were conveyed through trusted intermediaries like Hathach, the king's chamberlain, who served as a conduit between Esther and Mordecai ([Esther 4:5](/esther/4-5 "Hathach, Esther's Messenger")). The use of "bade" (Hebrew _vatomer_, "and she said/commanded") emphasizes Esther's authority as queen; she is issuing a direct instruction to her servants, demonstrating her agency. This indirect method of communication also allowed for a degree of formality and control over the message, ensuring it was delivered precisely as intended, reflecting the hierarchical and formal nature of communication within the Persian Empire's royal administration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther 4:15, marking Esther's decisive commitment to intercede for her people, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate intercession of Jesus Christ. Just as Esther, at great personal risk, chose to "return Mordecai [this answer]" of courageous action, so too did Christ, fully aware of the immense cost, decisively choose to fulfill His redemptive mission. His journey to the cross, a moment of ultimate decision and self-sacrifice, was not a hesitant act but a resolute commitment to save humanity from spiritual annihilation. Where Esther risked her life to save her physical people from a human decree, Christ willingly laid down His divine life to save all people from the eternal decree of sin and death ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life")). His "answer" to the Father's will and humanity's desperate need was not merely a spoken word but a lived obedience, culminating in His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, securing not just a temporary reprieve but eternal deliverance ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Christ's Eternal Redemption")). Thus, Esther's pivotal decision echoes the greater, more profound resolve of the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose ultimate "answer" brought salvation and eternal life to all who believe, embodying the perfect intercessor who "always lives to intercede for them" ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Jesus Lives to Intercede")).

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.