Esther 9:4

For Mordecai [was] great in the king's house, and his fame went out throughout all the provinces: for this man Mordecai waxed greater and greater.

For Mordecai {H4782} was great {H1419} in the king's {H4428} house {H1004}, and his fame {H8089} went out {H1980} throughout all the provinces {H4082}: for this man {H376} Mordecai {H4782} waxed {H1980} greater and greater {H1419}.

For Mordekhai had become a powerful person in the king's palace, and his fame had spread through all the provinces; Mordekhai continued to grow increasingly powerful.

For Mordecai exercised great power in the palace, and his fame spread throughout the provinces as he became more and more powerful.

For Mordecai was great in the kingโ€™s house, and his fame went forth throughout all the provinces; for the man Mordecai waxed greater and greater.

Commentary

Esther 9:4 vividly describes the elevated status and widespread recognition of Mordecai in the Persian Empire following the dramatic events of the book of Esther. This verse marks a significant turning point, highlighting the complete reversal of fortune for Mordecai and, by extension, the Jewish people.

Context

This verse comes immediately after the Jewish people, empowered by King Ahasuerus's new decree, successfully defended themselves against their enemies throughout the 127 provinces of the vast Persian Empire. The preceding chapters detail the plot of Haman to annihilate the Jews, Queen Esther's courageous intercession, and Haman's subsequent execution (Esther 7:10). Mordecai, who was once a gatekeeper and then targeted by Haman, is now elevated to a position of immense power and influence, second only to King Ahasuerus himself. His rise is a direct consequence of his faithfulness and the divine providence at work throughout the narrative.

Key Themes

  • Divine Reversal and Vindication: The verse powerfully illustrates God's ability to turn situations around. What began as a plot to destroy the Jewish people culminates in their vindication and the exaltation of their leader, Mordecai. This mirrors the broader theme of God's justice and His faithfulness to His people, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned in the text.
  • Authority and Influence: Mordecai's greatness is not merely a title but an active influence. He is "great in the king's house," signifying his role as a trusted advisor and administrator. His "fame went out throughout all the provinces," indicating that his authority and reputation were recognized and respected across the entire empire. This widespread recognition solidified his position and further secured the safety of the Jewish community.
  • Progressive Elevation: The phrase "waxed greater and greater" emphasizes a continuous and increasing trajectory of influence and power. Mordecai's rise was not a static appointment but an ongoing process of gaining more esteem, respect, and authority, reflecting his effective leadership and the King's ongoing favor.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "waxed greater and greater" beautifully conveys the progressive nature of Mordecai's ascendancy. The Hebrew verb for "waxed" (ื’ึธึผื“ึทืœ, gadal) means to become great, powerful, or prominent. Its repetition emphasizes the continuous and growing magnitude of his influence, indicating a dynamic and ever-increasing status rather than a static position.

Practical Application

Mordecai's story, culminating in his widespread fame and influence, offers several timeless lessons:

  • Faithfulness Rewarded: Mordecai's initial faithfulness in uncovering the plot against the king (Esther 2:22-23) and his unwavering commitment to his people paved the way for his later exaltation. It reminds us that God often honors integrity and perseverance.
  • God's Sovereignty in Unseen Ways: The book of Esther famously does not mention God directly, yet His hand is evident in every turn of events. Mordecai's rise is a testament to God's sovereign control, working through human actions and circumstances to achieve His purposes, even in seemingly secular environments. This encourages believers to trust in God's plan even when it's not immediately apparent.
  • Influence for Good: Mordecai used his position of power not for personal gain, but to establish the festival of Purim (Esther 9:20-22) and ensure the ongoing welfare of his people. His example encourages us to use any influence or authority we gain to serve others and advance righteous causes.

Reflection

Esther 9:4 serves as a powerful capstone to Mordecai's journey, illustrating the profound shift from vulnerability to widespread recognition and authority. It underscores the themes of divine justice, the reward for faithfulness, and the ultimate triumph of God's people against overwhelming odds, reminding us that even in the most challenging circumstances, God is at work, orchestrating events for His glory and the good of those who trust Him.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 11:9 (6 votes)

    So David waxed greater and greater: for the LORD of hosts [was] with him.

  • 2 Samuel 3:1 (6 votes)

    ยถ Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.

  • 1 Samuel 2:30 (3 votes)

    Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

  • Psalms 18:43 (3 votes)

    Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people; [and] thou hast made me the head of the heathen: a people [whom] I have not known shall serve me.

  • Proverbs 4:18 (3 votes)

    But the path of the just [is] as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

  • Joshua 6:27 (3 votes)

    So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was [noised] throughout all the country.

  • Zephaniah 3:19 (3 votes)

    Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.