Esther 4:15

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

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

Ester had them return this answer to Mordekhai:

Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai:

Then Esther bade them return answer unto Mordecai,

Commentary

Esther 4:15 marks a pivotal moment in the book of Esther, serving as a brief but crucial transitional verse. After receiving Mordecai's urgent plea and the stark warning about the impending doom for the Jewish people, Queen Esther makes the decision to respond directly to her cousin.

Context

Prior to this verse, Mordecai had sent a message to Esther through Hathach, detailing Haman's wicked decree to annihilate all Jews throughout the Persian empire (Esther 3:13). Esther initially hesitated, citing the danger of approaching the king unsummoned (Esther 4:11). However, Mordecai's powerful and challenging reply, particularly his famous question about whether she had "come to the kingdom for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14), clearly resonated with her. This verse, Esther 4:15, signifies that Esther has processed Mordecai's message and is now ready to formulate her definitive answer and plan of action, which is revealed in the subsequent verse.

Key Themes

  • The Turning Point of Decision: This verse highlights Esther's internal shift from fear and hesitation to a resolute determination. It's the moment she chooses to act, setting the stage for her courageous intervention.
  • Communication and Authority: The simple phrase "Esther bade [them] return Mordecai [this answer]" underscores her position as queen, issuing a direct command. It also emphasizes the vital role of messengers in ancient communication, carrying weighty decisions from the royal court.
  • Preparation for Action: While the answer itself isn't given here, the verse indicates that Esther is not merely acknowledging the message but is preparing a strategic response, leading to her famous declaration in Esther 4:16.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "Esther bade [them] return Mordecai [this answer]" is straightforward. The Hebrew verb for "bade" (Χ•Φ·Χͺֹּאמ֢ר, vatomer) means "and she said" or "and she commanded," emphasizing the directness and authority of her instruction. It signifies that Esther is now taking control of the situation and initiating the next step in the unfolding drama to save her people.

Practical Application

Esther 4:15 reminds us of the importance of making decisive choices when faced with critical situations. Just as Esther moved from contemplation to action, we too are often called to respond boldly to challenges or opportunities, especially when the well-being of others is at stake. It teaches us that even a simple instruction or communication can be the first step in a powerful chain of events that leads to significant outcomes. This verse, though brief, encapsulates the moment of commitment before the courageous act.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.