Esther 4:6

Esther 4:6 describes a crucial moment in the unfolding drama. Hatach, one of King Ahasuerus's chamberlains assigned to attend Esther, acts as the messenger between Queen Esther inside the palace and Mordecai, who is outside the gate publicly mourning the decree against the Jews.

Context

Following Haman's plot and the issuing of the decree to annihilate the Jews throughout the Persian empire (see Esther 3:13), Mordecai responds with public grief and lamentation (Esther 4:1). Esther hears of his distress and sends clothes, but Mordecai refuses them. She then sends Hatach to learn the cause of his profound sorrow. This verse marks Hatach's journey from the palace to the specific location where Mordecai is waiting.

The "street of the city, which was before the king's gate" refers to the public square or open area just outside the main entrance to the royal complex in Shushan (Susa). The gate was a significant place for public life, business, and official announcements.

Key Themes

• Communication in Crisis: This verse highlights the vital role of communication, even through intermediaries like Hatach, in navigating a crisis. Information must pass between those in positions of influence (Esther) and those with knowledge of the threat (Mordecai).
• The King's Gate: The location underscores Mordecai's public display of grief and his position outside the inner workings of the palace where Esther resides. The gate area was accessible to the public but distinct from the royal court itself.
• The Messenger's Role: Hatach's willingness and ability to go between Esther and Mordecai facilitate the flow of information that will ultimately lead to action. His role is essential in this narrative turning point.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "street of the city" is רְחוֹב הָעִיר (*rehov ha'iyr*), often meaning a broad place or square within the city. "Before the king's gate" (לִפְנֵי שַׁעַר הַמֶּלֶךְ, *lifnei sha'ar hammelek*) specifically identifies this public area as being directly adjacent to the main palace entrance, a location significant throughout the book of Esther (Esther 2:19, Esther 3:2).

Significance and Application

Esther 4:6 is a simple description of movement, but it represents the critical step where the private concern of Queen Esther connects with the public plight of her people through Mordecai's message. It shows that even small acts of communication, like sending a messenger, can have monumental consequences in God's providence. It reminds us that staying informed and communicating effectively are crucial, especially when facing difficult circumstances or advocating for others.