Hello to you,
I wanted to say what an honour it has been to study Esther with you,
however indirectly. Men rarely get to *attempt* diving into the female
psyche while studying scripture; this experience has been immensely
helpful to me and I have a fresh respect and appreciation for you all.
I could have studied Esther on my own, but never with this level of
intensity and perspective. Thank you so much!
I do want to point out that Esther's marriage is not representative of
our marriages, and that the struggles the Persian Jews faced is not
something we can easily relate to. Yet, we can relate to Xerxes' self
centeredness at times, can we not? Esther's courage and gentle spirit?
Haman's deceit and Mordecai's wisdom? The drama that unfolds in Esther
is not meant to perfectly mirror our lives but instruct us by
exaggerating our flaws and victories - as any good drama is meant to
do. I hope you were able to discern many practical lessons in these
chapters, and through conversations with each other, by which to live
as women of God.
Esther's story is memorable because God remembered a people who'd all
but forgotten Him in a foreign land. My prayer is that her story can
be yours, a rich tapestry of faith, gentleness, and humility.
May you enter the inner courts of heaven and draw near to the King's
throne room of grace; and as He beckons you and holds out his scepter,
reach out your hand and...
Sincerely,
Edward
Monday, March 28, 2011
Esther Study: Week 9
Reading: Esther chapter 9 and 10; 1 Samuel 15:13-23
_______
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1: Another obvious reversal.
v2-4: Mordecai grew to greatness and influence in 9 short months. That the king's officials helped defend the Jews without official orders demonstrates the Jew's new status of honour/respect within Persian society.
v5-6: Note there's no mention of women/children killed despite the fact that Mordecai's edict "permitted" it. Chapter 10 describes Mordecai as a peaceful man, his intent was never to condone needless slaughter, but to symbolically mirror Haman's edict.
v7-10: It was customary to kill not only enemies, but their children as well to end all threats. Several of Haman's sons were named after old pagan gods/demons - gives some insight into this family.
The author notes the lack of looting on three separate occasions, despite the fact that Mordecai's decree allowed it. Not only does this implicate protection, and not gain, as the motivation behind the killings; it also hints at something culturally significant. Read 1 Samuel 15:17-23 and remember Haman was a descendant of the Agagites. Saul (Israel's first king) disobeyed God and plundered the Amalekites, as a result he fell from God's favour and the Amalekite/Agagite line survived, resulting in Haman. The Jews of Esther's time were well aware of this stain on their history and very likely saw this as a sacred war to correct Saul's mistake. They intended to succeed where Saul had failed, and refused to allow greed to guide their hands to plunder. In the words of one commentator, "There was to be no personal profit in holy war because the destroyers were acting not on their own behalf but as agents of God's wrath." This adds significance to the author's specific mention of the termination of Haman's line.
v11-15: Esther wasn't squeamish to take steps to ensure this threat against her people never rises in the Persian empire again.
v16: Our consciences recoil in horror at the thought of 75, 800 killed in 2 days. Remember that the Jews were outnumbered, and only fought against those who attacked them. They were aware that the Jews have been preparing and chose to attack regardless, fully expecting to win.
v17-19: The Hebrew word for "gifts of food" is manah, the same word is used in Psalm 16:5 and is translated there as "portions." The Jews saw God as their inheritance and provider, the giving of gifts served as a reminder of this truth; similar to how Christians give gifts on Christmas as a reminder of God's gift of His son
_______
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1: Another obvious reversal.
v2-4: Mordecai grew to greatness and influence in 9 short months. That the king's officials helped defend the Jews without official orders demonstrates the Jew's new status of honour/respect within Persian society.
v5-6: Note there's no mention of women/children killed despite the fact that Mordecai's edict "permitted" it. Chapter 10 describes Mordecai as a peaceful man, his intent was never to condone needless slaughter, but to symbolically mirror Haman's edict.
v7-10: It was customary to kill not only enemies, but their children as well to end all threats. Several of Haman's sons were named after old pagan gods/demons - gives some insight into this family.
The author notes the lack of looting on three separate occasions, despite the fact that Mordecai's decree allowed it. Not only does this implicate protection, and not gain, as the motivation behind the killings; it also hints at something culturally significant. Read 1 Samuel 15:17-23 and remember Haman was a descendant of the Agagites. Saul (Israel's first king) disobeyed God and plundered the Amalekites, as a result he fell from God's favour and the Amalekite/Agagite line survived, resulting in Haman. The Jews of Esther's time were well aware of this stain on their history and very likely saw this as a sacred war to correct Saul's mistake. They intended to succeed where Saul had failed, and refused to allow greed to guide their hands to plunder. In the words of one commentator, "There was to be no personal profit in holy war because the destroyers were acting not on their own behalf but as agents of God's wrath." This adds significance to the author's specific mention of the termination of Haman's line.
v11-15: Esther wasn't squeamish to take steps to ensure this threat against her people never rises in the Persian empire again.
v16: Our consciences recoil in horror at the thought of 75, 800 killed in 2 days. Remember that the Jews were outnumbered, and only fought against those who attacked them. They were aware that the Jews have been preparing and chose to attack regardless, fully expecting to win.
v17-19: The Hebrew word for "gifts of food" is manah, the same word is used in Psalm 16:5 and is translated there as "portions." The Jews saw God as their inheritance and provider, the giving of gifts served as a reminder of this truth; similar to how Christians give gifts on Christmas as a reminder of God's gift of His son
v20: Some scholars believe Mordecai to be the author of the book of Esther, this verse seems to hint at this.
v21-28: One more reversal: what Haman determined, through pagan rituals, to be a day of calamity turned into a day of deliverance and gladness for the Jew. The Jews were well aware of God's involvement in their salvation and deliverance. The sheer unlikelihood of a Jewish girl becoming queen, that she could convince the king of his trusted advisor's treachery, the king's timely notice of Mordecai's heroism, all point to God's unseen hand at work. The Jews were not opposed to obeying what their thankful hearts naturally desired to do, to celebrate God's faithfulness.
v29-32: The Jews are essentially commanded, by royal decree, to commemorate those two days of Adar as a testament of God's faithfulness. Remember what Persian law said about royal decrees.
Ch10: There are strange gaps in ancient Persian records during the period Mordecai held his office. Although one tablet does identify a man named Mardukaya as an official in the early years of Xerxes' reign, many scholars believe this to be Mordecai.
Note that Mordecai remained popular with his people; this says a lot about how Mordecai used the power at his disposal, the kind of power that so easily corrupts.
v21-28: One more reversal: what Haman determined, through pagan rituals, to be a day of calamity turned into a day of deliverance and gladness for the Jew. The Jews were well aware of God's involvement in their salvation and deliverance. The sheer unlikelihood of a Jewish girl becoming queen, that she could convince the king of his trusted advisor's treachery, the king's timely notice of Mordecai's heroism, all point to God's unseen hand at work. The Jews were not opposed to obeying what their thankful hearts naturally desired to do, to celebrate God's faithfulness.
v29-32: The Jews are essentially commanded, by royal decree, to commemorate those two days of Adar as a testament of God's faithfulness. Remember what Persian law said about royal decrees.
Ch10: There are strange gaps in ancient Persian records during the period Mordecai held his office. Although one tablet does identify a man named Mardukaya as an official in the early years of Xerxes' reign, many scholars believe this to be Mordecai.
Note that Mordecai remained popular with his people; this says a lot about how Mordecai used the power at his disposal, the kind of power that so easily corrupts.
_______
Reflections:
Why do you think Esther asked for a second day of death in the capitol? While her reasons may have been perfectly legitimate, keep in mind that she is still fallibly human and prone to imperfections like panic, fear, and spite. Has feelings of protectiveness ever caused you to react more harshly towards a threat against someone/something you cared for than the situation warranted?
The Jews showed mercy to the women and children of their attackers with the exception of Haman's family; they also did not ruin the lives of those left behind by plundering them. Have you ever given or received grace to/from an enemy? What was the response? Read Proverbs 25:21-22, what did Solomon mean by burning coals?
Mordecai said to kill the women and children, but the Jews did not; to plunder their enemies, yet they showed restraint; made no mention of killing Haman's sons, yet they did so; commands them to celebrate, and they've already started. Mordecai was a peaceful man whose edict was meant to symbolically mirror Haman's, yet the Jews anticipated his true will/intention and followed that rather than the written orders. Ever been in a community (family, church, small group, sport team, etc) where the leader and the led are so in sync, that the leader's authority rarely need be exercised? What qualities in the leader and the led allowed everything to run so smoothly? (See Matthew 20:25-28)
Note one commentator's words, "the Jews did not commemorate the day of their victorious battle, but the day on which they rested from their enemies." Do you make a point of remembering milestones in your Christian walk, times that God's pulled through? Why might this practice be helpful/important? What are the implications of commemorating the day they rested from their enemies rather than the day of their victorious battle? Does this translate into what or how we choose to remember God's faithfulness? What are some of your personal "Purims"
Which characters or story elements have you identified with in the study as a whole?
Reflections:
Why do you think Esther asked for a second day of death in the capitol? While her reasons may have been perfectly legitimate, keep in mind that she is still fallibly human and prone to imperfections like panic, fear, and spite. Has feelings of protectiveness ever caused you to react more harshly towards a threat against someone/something you cared for than the situation warranted?
The Jews showed mercy to the women and children of their attackers with the exception of Haman's family; they also did not ruin the lives of those left behind by plundering them. Have you ever given or received grace to/from an enemy? What was the response? Read Proverbs 25:21-22, what did Solomon mean by burning coals?
Mordecai said to kill the women and children, but the Jews did not; to plunder their enemies, yet they showed restraint; made no mention of killing Haman's sons, yet they did so; commands them to celebrate, and they've already started. Mordecai was a peaceful man whose edict was meant to symbolically mirror Haman's, yet the Jews anticipated his true will/intention and followed that rather than the written orders. Ever been in a community (family, church, small group, sport team, etc) where the leader and the led are so in sync, that the leader's authority rarely need be exercised? What qualities in the leader and the led allowed everything to run so smoothly? (See Matthew 20:25-28)
Note one commentator's words, "the Jews did not commemorate the day of their victorious battle, but the day on which they rested from their enemies." Do you make a point of remembering milestones in your Christian walk, times that God's pulled through? Why might this practice be helpful/important? What are the implications of commemorating the day they rested from their enemies rather than the day of their victorious battle? Does this translate into what or how we choose to remember God's faithfulness? What are some of your personal "Purims"
Which characters or story elements have you identified with in the study as a whole?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Esther Study: Week 8
Reading: Esther 8; Isaiah 52:7-10
________
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1-2: Two reversals: Haman intended to plunder the Jews and instead his possessions are plundered. Also, Haman who received the ring that should’ve been Mordecai’s, lost it in death to its rightful possessor.
v3-6: Esther no longer requests but pleads this second time. The awkward deference to the king was partly due to her asking Xerxes to do the impossible on her behalf, to revoke Haman’s letters (in effect, a royal decree).
v7-8: While Xerxes could not cancel the first order as Esther requested, he gave Mordecai the same authority he once gave Haman to nullify the effects of the first decree.
v9: Sivan is another Jewish month. For the author to use Jewish instead of Persian months is analogous to a 3rd generation ABC using Chinese lunar calendar in place of the Western Gregorian (Jan to Dec) calendar. It demonstrates either a firm adherence, or an enthusiastic return, to a strong cultural/national identity while in a foreign land.
Note that Mordecai’s edict was written not only to officials and governors, as it was with Haman’s edict, but to Jewish communities as well in their own Hebrew language.
v10: v10 and 14 make special mention of couriers using the king’s fastest horses; there is an urgency that wasn’t seen with Haman’s edict. Which begs the question from this procrastination-prone, 21 century reader, why the rush? The massacre was set for the 12th month and this was merely the 3rd month, was there really need to send the new edict via overnight Fedex? Given the festive atmosphere at the end of the chapter one must assume that the urgency is in part inspired by a desire to get the good news out, to give people hope, and end their despair ASAP. Also, the Jews had merely 9 months to prepare and train their inexperienced men, every day counted.
v11-14: This edict was meant to nullify the first. It essentially gave the Jews the right to defend themselves. Why not send the Persian army to defend the Jews? Partly because the unstable throne of the Persian empire, stretching from the Mediterranean to India, MUST maintain some semblance of neutrality. Permitting the Jews to defend themselves was the most the government could do without showing obvious favouritism. At first glance this might not seem like much, but keep in mind that governments are generally wary of large civilian gatherings for fear of riots and rebellion. Persia was no different. The Jews probably did NOT have the right to assemble into a militia, or to purchase and train in the use of weapons prior to this edict. Any attempts to do so without royal approval would have been met with brutal force from the Persian army. So while Haman’s edict essentially legalized violence and robbery against the defenseless Jews (for one day); Mordecai’s edict allowed the Jews to band together and fight back (also, only for one day) without repercussions from the crown.
v15: The citizens of Susa rejoiced at not only the edict, but at Mordecai being honoured. If one read between the lines, Mordecai’s new position and his edict indicates the crown no longer disfavoured the Jews. Interestingly, many commentators point out the striking resemblance between Mordecai’s new clothes and levitical priestly vestments (Exodus 39). Coincidence? I think not.
v16: Beautiful reversal: Jews’ despair, mourning, weeping, wailing, and fasting into happiness, joy, gladness, honour, and feasting.
v17: Reversal: Generations of Jews tried to assimilate into Persian culture so as to not stand out and be discriminated against. Where Esther was once counseled to appear as a non-Jew, non-Jews themselves now contrive to be mistaken as Jews. Esther and Mordecai’s social standing is matched by a new found respect for the Jewish ethnicity.
________
Reflection:
Xerxes was fast to pass off his signet ring, and in effect, abdicate his responsibilities as king to another. Is there a difference between wise delegation of responsibilities and plain laziness? Do you delegate well? Do you put off tasks or ministries that you know you had the time for and are well suited to because you assume others would take care of it?
Esther finally reveals herself to be a Jew to her husband of five years. Granted Esther's situation and marriage is completely different in scope and context to our silicon valley culture, should there be secrets in a marriage/relationship?
* "If I am pleasing in [the king's] eyes, let an order be written..." Esther drew a (perhaps familiar?) connection between her husband’s pleasure at her person and his approval of her plan in v5. Should there be a difference between the two? Have you ever taken someone’s rejection of your idea personally, as a sign of disapproval towards your person rather than just your idea? How much are our opinions, thoughts, and ideas tied to our identity?
Why does Esther make her request a second time? What do you make of Xerxes’ reply with regard to his character and his attitude toward the situation?
Esther wanted to revoke one decree and instead was given the authority to write another. We sometimes approach prayer with a solution already in mind and are only looking for God's nod of approval instead of seeking his will. Ever have God come up with an entirely different solution? Did it work out better than expected?
* The new edict doesn’t remove the threat, but instead gave Jews the means to handle it. This is often analogous to God's approach in our lives with regards to crises. Ever faced an emergency where God did not remove the problem upon prayer, but very clearly supplied you with the resources to deal with the situation - be it emotional strength/integrity, people who were able to help, etc? Why do you think He does things this way? (see 2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
Friday, March 18, 2011
Esther Study: Week 7
Reading: Esther Chapter 7; Psalm 7:14-16
____
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1-2: Wine is the final course of a meal. In Persian culture, requests are only made at the end of a meal with permission of the request granter.
v3: Esther posed her request wisely. She switches from "if it pleases the KING" (5:4) to "if I found favour in YOUR eyes." The more direct/intimate mode of address hints she now speaks as his wife. She also personalized her request by voicing the threat against herself first. This essentially pits Xerxes' honour bound promise to her against his own decree. To save her, he needs to save her people. Note that she still hasn't identified herself as a Jew.
v4: I wonder what Haman thought when his own words, "destroyed, killed, and annihilated" came out of the queen's mouth. Esther was in a dangerous situation that called for tact and a bit of ego stoking. Remember there are two men to blame for the threat against her people, she needed to delicately expose one while being careful not to indict the other.
v5: This scene echoes Nathan's accusation of David where the king's own words condemned himself (2 Samuel 12:1-7).
v6: Esther doesn't name Haman until the king declared Haman guilty before he even knew the identity of the culprit.
Note Haman was terrified not just of the king, but the queen as well. This is the first time the royal couple is seen as...well, a couple. A husband and a wife standing on the same side is a force to be reckoned with.
v7: Not only did Haman threaten his wife and caused social unrest in the empire; but more importantly, he played him for a fool. I'd be a little ticked off as well. At least he's applying those anger management classes and leaves the room to compose himself.
Second reversal, Haman who obsessed about forcing all Jews to kneel at his feet is now kneeling before a Jewish girl.
v8: The Hebrew verb "kabash" is typically translated as subdue or assault in the old testament but in this context implies rape. Perhaps Xerxes reached this crazy conclusion because of the jealousy planted with Haman's inclusion in two intimate dinners. The sheer absurdity of Haman making any sexual advances in his situation bolsters this jealousy theory. Ironically, the final crime that evaporated any last chance Haman had at leniency wasn't even one he committed.
Words cover his face? A strange and poetic imagery. Probably refers to the fact that the faces of those under death sentence in Persia are covered with a veil.
v9: Haman was not well loved by the palace staff it seems. This proverbial nail in the coffin gives us a third reversal, the death Haman intended for Mordecai is now his own death.
v10: Graphic Imagery Warning! Based on Persian history/tradition, it's likely that the gallows described here is not a noose but a scaffold holding up a 75ft long stake on which the victim would be impaled and held up for public display. This method of execution is often used on criminals and prisoners of war to serve as a warning or example. It is a dishonourable death.
The king's wrath subsided with a death. Here, the guilty one died and the innocent one lived. With Christ and the cross, the innocent one dies so that the guilty ones may live. Blood is needed to turn aside wrath in both.
____
Reflection:
* Picking the right moment and manner of approach to a conversation impacts how well our messages or opinions are received. Have you ever had a potentially difficult talk go smoother than expected because the "how" or "when" of the conversation was well thought out? Conversely, ever had a well intentioned conversation go poorly because of unwise timing or approach?
* Although her husband was partly to blame, Esther was careful to focus on the real source of the problem. When you argue, do you find yourself more focused on blame (either yours or theirs) or resolution?
* What were some similarities and differences between Esther's request in 7:3-4 and Haman's appeal back in 3:8-9? Is there a difference between being cunning/shrewd and being deceitful?
How do you typically deal with anger?
Why do you think Haman plead with Esther instead of the king?
* Do you ever notice jealousy and anger affecting your sense of judgment and leading to wrong assumptions?
* Did you find yourself feeling sorry for Haman? What are your views on God's justice, especially when bad people "get away" with their crimes?
____
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1-2: Wine is the final course of a meal. In Persian culture, requests are only made at the end of a meal with permission of the request granter.
v3: Esther posed her request wisely. She switches from "if it pleases the KING" (5:4) to "if I found favour in YOUR eyes." The more direct/intimate mode of address hints she now speaks as his wife. She also personalized her request by voicing the threat against herself first. This essentially pits Xerxes' honour bound promise to her against his own decree. To save her, he needs to save her people. Note that she still hasn't identified herself as a Jew.
v4: I wonder what Haman thought when his own words, "destroyed, killed, and annihilated" came out of the queen's mouth. Esther was in a dangerous situation that called for tact and a bit of ego stoking. Remember there are two men to blame for the threat against her people, she needed to delicately expose one while being careful not to indict the other.
v5: This scene echoes Nathan's accusation of David where the king's own words condemned himself (2 Samuel 12:1-7).
v6: Esther doesn't name Haman until the king declared Haman guilty before he even knew the identity of the culprit.
Note Haman was terrified not just of the king, but the queen as well. This is the first time the royal couple is seen as...well, a couple. A husband and a wife standing on the same side is a force to be reckoned with.
v7: Not only did Haman threaten his wife and caused social unrest in the empire; but more importantly, he played him for a fool. I'd be a little ticked off as well. At least he's applying those anger management classes and leaves the room to compose himself.
Second reversal, Haman who obsessed about forcing all Jews to kneel at his feet is now kneeling before a Jewish girl.
v8: The Hebrew verb "kabash" is typically translated as subdue or assault in the old testament but in this context implies rape. Perhaps Xerxes reached this crazy conclusion because of the jealousy planted with Haman's inclusion in two intimate dinners. The sheer absurdity of Haman making any sexual advances in his situation bolsters this jealousy theory. Ironically, the final crime that evaporated any last chance Haman had at leniency wasn't even one he committed.
Words cover his face? A strange and poetic imagery. Probably refers to the fact that the faces of those under death sentence in Persia are covered with a veil.
v9: Haman was not well loved by the palace staff it seems. This proverbial nail in the coffin gives us a third reversal, the death Haman intended for Mordecai is now his own death.
v10: Graphic Imagery Warning! Based on Persian history/tradition, it's likely that the gallows described here is not a noose but a scaffold holding up a 75ft long stake on which the victim would be impaled and held up for public display. This method of execution is often used on criminals and prisoners of war to serve as a warning or example. It is a dishonourable death.
The king's wrath subsided with a death. Here, the guilty one died and the innocent one lived. With Christ and the cross, the innocent one dies so that the guilty ones may live. Blood is needed to turn aside wrath in both.
____
Reflection:
* Picking the right moment and manner of approach to a conversation impacts how well our messages or opinions are received. Have you ever had a potentially difficult talk go smoother than expected because the "how" or "when" of the conversation was well thought out? Conversely, ever had a well intentioned conversation go poorly because of unwise timing or approach?
* Although her husband was partly to blame, Esther was careful to focus on the real source of the problem. When you argue, do you find yourself more focused on blame (either yours or theirs) or resolution?
* What were some similarities and differences between Esther's request in 7:3-4 and Haman's appeal back in 3:8-9? Is there a difference between being cunning/shrewd and being deceitful?
How do you typically deal with anger?
Why do you think Haman plead with Esther instead of the king?
* Do you ever notice jealousy and anger affecting your sense of judgment and leading to wrong assumptions?
* Did you find yourself feeling sorry for Haman? What are your views on God's justice, especially when bad people "get away" with their crimes?
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Esther Study: Week 6
Reading: Esther Chapter 6; Genesis 41:37-44
Haman's in for a really bad day. From here on out, start paying attention to role reversals which becomes a repeated theme in the second half of the book.
____
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1: We rarely see God's hand in something so mundane as insomnia, yet He works all things to His purpose. Psalm 121:4 is rather ironic given this context.
v2: God is never directly mentioned, yet He is clearly orchestrating events. Xerxes just happens to be reminded of Mordecai's service (5 long years ago) at the exact same time Haman is plotting his death. Coincidence? I think not.
v3-4: God's timing is always perfect. This conversation probably took place the following morning. Haman arrives on cue at the precise moment Xerxes sought advice on how to reward the man Haman wants executed.
v5: This is the protocol Esther disregarded. Haman waited in the outer court (v4) and did not enter the inner court, which Esther entered uninvited (5:1), until he was summoned.
v6: See a man who's full of himself.
v7-9: Came up with that answer kinda quick there, Hammy. Sounds like somebody's daydreamed this fantasy before. This is an extremely audacious request and, some scholars believe, hints at secret ambitions for the royal crown. Genesis 41:42-44 has an interesting parallel.
v10: The king seemed oddly eager to assign his "favoured official" to this demeaning task. Once again, I wonder if one of the intended repercussions of Hammy's invitation to dinner was a wedge of distrust and jealousy between Xerxes and his adviser. Also note the king never made the connection between Mordecai's Jewishness with the decree of destruction that bears his signature.
v11: The ironies of this divine comedy gives us the first of many reversals in the latter half of this book. Haman sought to honour himself but ends up honouring his enemy and dishonoured himself. Curiously, no mention is made of the interaction between him and Mordecai in the longest day of Hammy's life. (ok ok, i'll stop)
v12: I LOVE this image! The man gets paraded around town by his enemy and then goes right back to work afterwards, probably punched back in for lunch too. No bragging, no sneering, no fist pumping. Contrast this with Haman who bragged all night about a dinner invitation. I also note that the slacker did NOT go back to work.
v13: His friends are singing a different tune, in a matter of hours they go from whole-hearted support to heartless negativity. Perhaps they sensed that his humiliation at the king's behest signaled a shift in power and are quick to desert him in his decline.
v14: I wonder what Haman thought as he was summoned. What started out as a point of pride, to be the ONLY person to dine with the king and queen, must now seem a lonely and frightening prospect as his friends desert him.
____
Reflection:
* God is purposeful in his timing and actions - even in our sleepless nights. What you do to occupy the small hours of the night, your thoughts, your online conversations - it all serves His purpose. Describe an instance where you realized (perhaps after the fact) that God strategically timed something you read, thought, experienced, or heard. Why do you think we are so rarely aware of God's hand on our lives?
* Can you relate to Haman's presumptuousness in v6? Continuous belief that we are the object of other people's conversations/thoughts/moods (whether positive or negative) is an unhealthy and prideful preoccupation. The world does not revolve around us and assumptions to the contrary often lead to baseless conclusions. Our minds can turn misunderstandings into insults, platonic compliments into flirtation, and a general bad mood into bitterness specifically directed at our persons. Name a negative assumption you've held against someone that was eventually proved false. How did the incorrect assumption affect how you viewed or acted towards the person? Did realizing you were wrong change your attitude towards them? If not (and it often doesn't for me), why do you think this is?
What are some of the details left out between v11-13 that you wish were included?
* What does Mordecai returning to work and Haman hurrying home in v12 each say about their character? How do you typically handle success/praise and failure/rejection?
Ever experience a difficult time during which friends appear to distance themselves from you? If so, why do you suppose it happened? Be fair to those friends! You could've been unpleasant to be around during those periods.
* Haman's friends effectively said "you're screwed..." in v13 when they were the ones who advised Mordecai's execution. Have you ever given bad advice? What do you usually do once you find out that your suggestions has led to unexpected consequences?
Haman's in for a really bad day. From here on out, start paying attention to role reversals which becomes a repeated theme in the second half of the book.
____
Commentaries: (Optional)
v1: We rarely see God's hand in something so mundane as insomnia, yet He works all things to His purpose. Psalm 121:4 is rather ironic given this context.
v2: God is never directly mentioned, yet He is clearly orchestrating events. Xerxes just happens to be reminded of Mordecai's service (5 long years ago) at the exact same time Haman is plotting his death. Coincidence? I think not.
v3-4: God's timing is always perfect. This conversation probably took place the following morning. Haman arrives on cue at the precise moment Xerxes sought advice on how to reward the man Haman wants executed.
v5: This is the protocol Esther disregarded. Haman waited in the outer court (v4) and did not enter the inner court, which Esther entered uninvited (5:1), until he was summoned.
v6: See a man who's full of himself.
v7-9: Came up with that answer kinda quick there, Hammy. Sounds like somebody's daydreamed this fantasy before. This is an extremely audacious request and, some scholars believe, hints at secret ambitions for the royal crown. Genesis 41:42-44 has an interesting parallel.
v10: The king seemed oddly eager to assign his "favoured official" to this demeaning task. Once again, I wonder if one of the intended repercussions of Hammy's invitation to dinner was a wedge of distrust and jealousy between Xerxes and his adviser. Also note the king never made the connection between Mordecai's Jewishness with the decree of destruction that bears his signature.
v11: The ironies of this divine comedy gives us the first of many reversals in the latter half of this book. Haman sought to honour himself but ends up honouring his enemy and dishonoured himself. Curiously, no mention is made of the interaction between him and Mordecai in the longest day of Hammy's life. (ok ok, i'll stop)
v12: I LOVE this image! The man gets paraded around town by his enemy and then goes right back to work afterwards, probably punched back in for lunch too. No bragging, no sneering, no fist pumping. Contrast this with Haman who bragged all night about a dinner invitation. I also note that the slacker did NOT go back to work.
v13: His friends are singing a different tune, in a matter of hours they go from whole-hearted support to heartless negativity. Perhaps they sensed that his humiliation at the king's behest signaled a shift in power and are quick to desert him in his decline.
v14: I wonder what Haman thought as he was summoned. What started out as a point of pride, to be the ONLY person to dine with the king and queen, must now seem a lonely and frightening prospect as his friends desert him.
____
Reflection:
* God is purposeful in his timing and actions - even in our sleepless nights. What you do to occupy the small hours of the night, your thoughts, your online conversations - it all serves His purpose. Describe an instance where you realized (perhaps after the fact) that God strategically timed something you read, thought, experienced, or heard. Why do you think we are so rarely aware of God's hand on our lives?
* Can you relate to Haman's presumptuousness in v6? Continuous belief that we are the object of other people's conversations/thoughts/moods (whether positive or negative) is an unhealthy and prideful preoccupation. The world does not revolve around us and assumptions to the contrary often lead to baseless conclusions. Our minds can turn misunderstandings into insults, platonic compliments into flirtation, and a general bad mood into bitterness specifically directed at our persons. Name a negative assumption you've held against someone that was eventually proved false. How did the incorrect assumption affect how you viewed or acted towards the person? Did realizing you were wrong change your attitude towards them? If not (and it often doesn't for me), why do you think this is?
What are some of the details left out between v11-13 that you wish were included?
* What does Mordecai returning to work and Haman hurrying home in v12 each say about their character? How do you typically handle success/praise and failure/rejection?
Ever experience a difficult time during which friends appear to distance themselves from you? If so, why do you suppose it happened? Be fair to those friends! You could've been unpleasant to be around during those periods.
* Haman's friends effectively said "you're screwed..." in v13 when they were the ones who advised Mordecai's execution. Have you ever given bad advice? What do you usually do once you find out that your suggestions has led to unexpected consequences?
Monday, March 14, 2011
Esther Study: Week 5
Reading: Esther chapter 5; Ephesians 5:22-33
_____________________
Commentaries:
v1: Picture the scene. Esther, dressed in her best, terrified and starving after a 3 day fast, approaching the throne while onlookers gasped at her audacity in approaching the king uninvited. She keeps her eyes on her husband and...
v2: ...his eyes met hers. See a marriage that's broken down into rituals and protocol. For Xerxes to extend his scepter was to risk gossip of his inability to control his second wife. Perhaps intrigued by her boldness in a court where everyone grovelled to him, Xerxes does so anyways.
v3: Time out. Xerxes is the kind of man who ignores his wife for weeks on end, anyone really believe he would give her half his kingdom? Xerxes was not speaking literally, Herod made the exact same offer (Mark 6:23). Although kings are honour bound to keep their promise and grant whatever boon is asked of them, they offer half their kingdom to give the appearance of generosity while expecting nobody (queens included) to actually dare ask it of them.
v4: Why invite Haman? One VERY interesting theory: Esther purposefully invited Haman to both intimate dinners with her husband to make Xerxes jealous of his adviser (who's NOT a eunuch =P). The theory is not without merit, as we'll see in ch 7. Remember, Esther is going up against the king's favoured adviser. This move effectively predisposes the king to distrust Haman and lays the groundwork for her accusations to be heard the next day. Devious. I like, I like.
v5: One might think the king ignored his wife for 30 days because he was busy. Yet he actually seemed rather bored here, and immediately drops everything at the mention of a feast. Guy's just lazy. >=(
v6: The way to a man's heart (and mind) is through his stomach. Your humble devotional writer shamefully attests to the truth of these words.
v7-8: Esther promises to ask her favour the next day and by now the king was curious enough to play along with her little games. She had the FULL attention of her normally distracted husband. In the words of one commentator, "Esther began as if she were going to state her petition but then broke off and instead invited the king and Haman to another banquet...in my opinion, the clever way in which she induces the king virtually to grant her request before he knows what it is suggests that she knows full well what she is doing."
v9: There are at least two reasons why Haman switched from happy to angry so quickly. The first was his bitter hatred towards Mordecai. Haman expected Mordecai to plead for the life of his people dressed in the rumored sackcloth, yet finds his dignity unbroken. This drove him nuts. Hatred and resentment ruins happiness.
v10: "[Haman], there are two kinds of angry people - explosive and implosive. Explosive is the type of individual you see screaming at the cashier for not taking his coupon. Implosive is the cashier who remains quiet day after day and then finally shoots everyone in the store. You're the cashier." - Dr. Buddy Rydell (Jack Nicholson), Anger Management.
v11-13: The second reason for Haman's rapid mood swing is the flimsy foundations on which his happiness is based: possessions, status, and people to brag to. Transient, pride-based happiness springs quickly from good fortune but evaporates at the first sign of trouble or disappointment. It is not solid nor lasting.
v14: Evil men gather evil friends (and wives). They actually sympathized with Haman's pathetic grudge and self pity. More than that, they casually suggested murder just so his merriment would go unmarred that evening. Also note the arrogance in the words "tell the king." Haman viewed the king as either a puppet or a genie, not an entirely inaccurate assumption.
_____________
Reflection:
Xerxes didn't know how to communicate with his wife so he relied on formulas and protocols. Have you ever noticed how relying on sterile routines instead of living communication can slowly rot a relationship of vitality?
The king twice offered to grant her wish, and was even slightly tipsy the second time, why didn't Esther make her request?
Ever had a happy mood ruined because of something trivial? Is it ever because of a begrudging resentment or pride-based happiness as were the case with Haman? What are some solid things to base happiness/joy on?
Ever notice how a grudge stays on your mind? Having our thoughts completely preoccupied with someone is never healthy, be the thoughts negative OR positive. How might either case be bad for us?
One recurring theme in the book of Esther is bad advice; unwise, quick fixes to complex problems. Contrast the advice Mordecai gave to Esther with the advice Zeresh offers her husband. What are the differences? Which side do the advices you offer typically fall?
Through wisdom and patience rather than loud demands; Esther captured the full attention of her normally distracted husband and, as we'll see in two weeks, won him over to her point of view. How does Esther's method exemplify Paul's exhortation for Christian wives (Ephesian 5:22-24) to encourage their husbands and to respectfully offer them advice and guidance while allowing them to lead? Granted that Esther's context and ours are vastly different, but how might this principle be practically lived out in our rights-obsessed culture of gender equality?
[Realizing that I tread dangerously thin ice, might I humbly suggest one practical scenario for your consideration? There is a HUGE difference between a wife asking her husband if he'd be willing to pray with her about the spiritual needs/condition of their kids versus another who demands to know why he doesn't lead the family's spiritual growth. Both women share the same desire, for the man to engage in the family's spiritual well being. One woman approached the disengaged husband with a gentle, guiding reminder that is likely to invite genuine concern and questions like "What's wrong with junior?" While the demanding attitude of the second is likely to incite an angry/defensive response by which the husband hopes to retain the dignity he feels his wife is denying him.]
_____________________
Commentaries:
v1: Picture the scene. Esther, dressed in her best, terrified and starving after a 3 day fast, approaching the throne while onlookers gasped at her audacity in approaching the king uninvited. She keeps her eyes on her husband and...
v2: ...his eyes met hers. See a marriage that's broken down into rituals and protocol. For Xerxes to extend his scepter was to risk gossip of his inability to control his second wife. Perhaps intrigued by her boldness in a court where everyone grovelled to him, Xerxes does so anyways.
v3: Time out. Xerxes is the kind of man who ignores his wife for weeks on end, anyone really believe he would give her half his kingdom? Xerxes was not speaking literally, Herod made the exact same offer (Mark 6:23). Although kings are honour bound to keep their promise and grant whatever boon is asked of them, they offer half their kingdom to give the appearance of generosity while expecting nobody (queens included) to actually dare ask it of them.
v4: Why invite Haman? One VERY interesting theory: Esther purposefully invited Haman to both intimate dinners with her husband to make Xerxes jealous of his adviser (who's NOT a eunuch =P). The theory is not without merit, as we'll see in ch 7. Remember, Esther is going up against the king's favoured adviser. This move effectively predisposes the king to distrust Haman and lays the groundwork for her accusations to be heard the next day. Devious. I like, I like.
v5: One might think the king ignored his wife for 30 days because he was busy. Yet he actually seemed rather bored here, and immediately drops everything at the mention of a feast. Guy's just lazy. >=(
v6: The way to a man's heart (and mind) is through his stomach. Your humble devotional writer shamefully attests to the truth of these words.
v7-8: Esther promises to ask her favour the next day and by now the king was curious enough to play along with her little games. She had the FULL attention of her normally distracted husband. In the words of one commentator, "Esther began as if she were going to state her petition but then broke off and instead invited the king and Haman to another banquet...in my opinion, the clever way in which she induces the king virtually to grant her request before he knows what it is suggests that she knows full well what she is doing."
v9: There are at least two reasons why Haman switched from happy to angry so quickly. The first was his bitter hatred towards Mordecai. Haman expected Mordecai to plead for the life of his people dressed in the rumored sackcloth, yet finds his dignity unbroken. This drove him nuts. Hatred and resentment ruins happiness.
v10: "[Haman], there are two kinds of angry people - explosive and implosive. Explosive is the type of individual you see screaming at the cashier for not taking his coupon. Implosive is the cashier who remains quiet day after day and then finally shoots everyone in the store. You're the cashier." - Dr. Buddy Rydell (Jack Nicholson), Anger Management.
v11-13: The second reason for Haman's rapid mood swing is the flimsy foundations on which his happiness is based: possessions, status, and people to brag to. Transient, pride-based happiness springs quickly from good fortune but evaporates at the first sign of trouble or disappointment. It is not solid nor lasting.
v14: Evil men gather evil friends (and wives). They actually sympathized with Haman's pathetic grudge and self pity. More than that, they casually suggested murder just so his merriment would go unmarred that evening. Also note the arrogance in the words "tell the king." Haman viewed the king as either a puppet or a genie, not an entirely inaccurate assumption.
_____________
Reflection:
Xerxes didn't know how to communicate with his wife so he relied on formulas and protocols. Have you ever noticed how relying on sterile routines instead of living communication can slowly rot a relationship of vitality?
The king twice offered to grant her wish, and was even slightly tipsy the second time, why didn't Esther make her request?
Ever had a happy mood ruined because of something trivial? Is it ever because of a begrudging resentment or pride-based happiness as were the case with Haman? What are some solid things to base happiness/joy on?
Ever notice how a grudge stays on your mind? Having our thoughts completely preoccupied with someone is never healthy, be the thoughts negative OR positive. How might either case be bad for us?
One recurring theme in the book of Esther is bad advice; unwise, quick fixes to complex problems. Contrast the advice Mordecai gave to Esther with the advice Zeresh offers her husband. What are the differences? Which side do the advices you offer typically fall?
Through wisdom and patience rather than loud demands; Esther captured the full attention of her normally distracted husband and, as we'll see in two weeks, won him over to her point of view. How does Esther's method exemplify Paul's exhortation for Christian wives (Ephesian 5:22-24) to encourage their husbands and to respectfully offer them advice and guidance while allowing them to lead? Granted that Esther's context and ours are vastly different, but how might this principle be practically lived out in our rights-obsessed culture of gender equality?
[Realizing that I tread dangerously thin ice, might I humbly suggest one practical scenario for your consideration? There is a HUGE difference between a wife asking her husband if he'd be willing to pray with her about the spiritual needs/condition of their kids versus another who demands to know why he doesn't lead the family's spiritual growth. Both women share the same desire, for the man to engage in the family's spiritual well being. One woman approached the disengaged husband with a gentle, guiding reminder that is likely to invite genuine concern and questions like "What's wrong with junior?" While the demanding attitude of the second is likely to incite an angry/defensive response by which the husband hopes to retain the dignity he feels his wife is denying him.]
Esther Study: Week 4
Reading: Esther Chapter 4; Joel 2:12-17
Pay close attention throughout this chapter on who's commanding/ordering who. Might notice something interesting.
________________
Commentaries:
v1: Mordecai gave the impression of a very proud and composed man, yet even Mr can't-bow-cause-my-knee-is-stiff is tearing his clothes and wailing in public.
v2: The palace gates was where Mordecai worked, he wasn't ashamed to expose his grief/needs to people who saw him everyday. How ironic that the very palace that caused this grief doesn't allow demonstrations of that grief within its walls, the government was disconnected from the needs of the people.
v3: Feasting is a recurring motifs in this book and the Jews' collective fasting stand in stark contrast. The Jews weren't merely starving themselves out of protest or grief, and they certainly weren't looking to shed a few pounds, they fasted in order to return to God through repentance. Read Joel 2:12-17 to see some very intended connections. Although Joel is ordered after Esther in the bible, it was actually written before.
v4: Esther was clueless! Instead of worrying about what caused Mordecai's bereavement, her immediate response was an almost comical concern for his modesty, funny yet sad at the same time.
v5: heheheh eunuch
v6-7: They met in an open square, right outside the palace gates. Kind of public for a discussion against the king's favored official, rather bold in a country with ears wide open for conspiracies. I wonder if Hathach was nervous at all.
v8: It is significant that Mordecai even passed on a copy of the decree. Perhaps his words alone wasn't enough to convince Esther of the gravity of the situation, or Esther needed proof to believe her husband ordered the genocide of her people. The copy was a final slap in the face to wake Esther to hard realities. Note that he just commanded his daughter; queen or no queen, old habits die hard.
v9-10: Why mention the messenger? Hathach highlights the distance between Esther and Mordecai. While their only physical barrier was a gate and a small walkway, the need for a messenger tells us that they're on different planets in terms of social status. It also screams of the difference in values - her frivolous solution to his grief, losing touch with the realities outside the palace, and her initial resolve to do nothing about the crisis. Esther has become sheltered, spoilt; and poor Hathach was stuck in one awkward turtle moment after another as Mordecai tries to get through to her.
v11: "All the king's servants know" implies that Mordecai knew the rules as well. Surely daddy wouldn't expect his little Hadassah to put herself in danger? I wonder if Esther thought the matter closed, and she absolved of any further responsibilities of her people's blood because of her perceived inability to do anything.
No doubt Esther feared echoing her predecessor's downfall. Where Vashi refused to come when bidden, she would come unbidden. Esther wasn't a perfect heroine, which makes her infinitely more relatable. I really want us to see ourselves in her, with all her flaws, fears, and insecurities. Although she had good reasons for hesitance, stacked next to God, all reasons for disobedience melt away.
The king ignores his wife for weeks on end. Esther was on a very short leash after Vashti and theres trouble in paradise as she finds herself at the beck and call of a man prone to precarious mood swings.
v12: "They." Hathach brought buddies this time, perhaps to protect himself due to the sensitive nature of the conversation. Or perhaps word got around and servants congregated to see this juicy gossip in the making.
v13: Hear the desperation of a father torn and conflicted. On the one hand, of COURSE he wants his little Hadassah safe; on the other, he was painfully aware of God's hand in placing his daughter in a strategic position to save their people. Esther (Persian name) has done such a good job of blending in among the Persians that he felt she needed to be reminded of the fact that she was also Hadassah (her Jewish name).
v14: God is implicitly mentioned in Mordecai's faith in deliverance. Mordecai was a man of great faith not only because of his confidence, but also in attributing Esther's strategic position to save her people to the design and workings of God.
v15-16: Communal prayer is powerful and Esther wanted EVERYONE praying. Note that she herself has an inner circle of girl friends who support her and are willing to fast and pray with her. I love the line "if I perish, I perish." What a powerful statement of commitment, so different from the girl too timid to go unsummoned into her husband's presence.
v17: The verb form of command/order, "Tsavah," is used four times this chapter. Twice from Esther to the eunuch (v5 and 10), once from Mordecai to Esther (v8), and now from Esther to Mordecai (v17). Who is the leader? Who gives the orders and who obeys? See a woman who was humble enough to submit to the wisdom of others and yet has the backbone to take charge when it's required of her. I wonder as Mordecai rushes off to obey his own daughter's command if his heart didn't surge with pride for his little Hadassah. She is finally acting like a queen. You go, girl! (....sorry..)
________________
Reflections:
Have you ever witnessed a public outburst of grief? What was your immediate impulse/response?
Do you think Mordecai regrets not kneeling? Is that a part of his grief?
Some crises are too important to save face, have you ever risked losing something so important that you threw away pride to save it?
* What is your immediate reaction to the hurt/injury of someone you care about? Have you ever focused on the wrong things, like Esther did with Mordecai's modesty?
Grief is sometimes an appropriate response, why do you think mordecai refused the change of clothes?
v8 - Esther was forced to choose between her husband's character and Mordecai's words, ever forced to choose between two people you love/trust?
* Have you ever received harsh advise/orders that required a sacrifice on your part? Does it cause you to doubt the advice giver?
Discuss the dual identity of Esther and Hadassah. Do you ever find yourself juggling multiple identities? If so, why?
We are often guilty of the sins of inaction. We can either sin by doing ignoble things or by leaving noble things undone. Ever notice this in your life? What are some needs you could meet in the lives of those around you but are choosing not to?
* A part of faith is seeing God's hand and purpose in where he places us, and the connections and skills that we are provided. How are you uniquely placed in life (jobs, friends, marriages, etc) with your unique sphere of influence for "such a time as this?"
* Why would Mordecai mourn and wear sackcloth if he had such faith in God's deliverance, with or without Esther? See John 11:35 for an interesting parallel. Does/should faith nullify emotions such as grief or fear?
Did v13 read like a threat to you or can it be read as a message of fatherly love and concern? Ever received harsh words that were said to protect and guide you? What does it take to receive harsh words of love the way Esther did?
* Esther did not go to Xerxes right away even though I imagine it'd be easier to just get it over with ASAP. Why do you think she put off the meeting for 3 days? Do you think Esther was tempted to back out during those 3 days? How did she stay with the game plan? (hint: who were praying with her?) How can this be practically replicated in your life?
What kind of values, worldviews, and support groups does it take to essentially say "if I die doing the will of God, then so be it"? Are you fostering and striving to grow these kinds of values, worldviews, and support groups?
* The bible is clear that wives are to submit to their husbands, yet is filled with glorious examples of godly women leaders. When AND how is it appropriate for women to lead/command a man in a marriage/relationship? Talk about this dichotomy of submission and gentle leadership that God calls his daughters into.
Pay close attention throughout this chapter on who's commanding/ordering who. Might notice something interesting.
________________
Commentaries:
v1: Mordecai gave the impression of a very proud and composed man, yet even Mr can't-bow-cause-my-knee-is-stiff is tearing his clothes and wailing in public.
v2: The palace gates was where Mordecai worked, he wasn't ashamed to expose his grief/needs to people who saw him everyday. How ironic that the very palace that caused this grief doesn't allow demonstrations of that grief within its walls, the government was disconnected from the needs of the people.
v3: Feasting is a recurring motifs in this book and the Jews' collective fasting stand in stark contrast. The Jews weren't merely starving themselves out of protest or grief, and they certainly weren't looking to shed a few pounds, they fasted in order to return to God through repentance. Read Joel 2:12-17 to see some very intended connections. Although Joel is ordered after Esther in the bible, it was actually written before.
v4: Esther was clueless! Instead of worrying about what caused Mordecai's bereavement, her immediate response was an almost comical concern for his modesty, funny yet sad at the same time.
v5: heheheh eunuch
v6-7: They met in an open square, right outside the palace gates. Kind of public for a discussion against the king's favored official, rather bold in a country with ears wide open for conspiracies. I wonder if Hathach was nervous at all.
v8: It is significant that Mordecai even passed on a copy of the decree. Perhaps his words alone wasn't enough to convince Esther of the gravity of the situation, or Esther needed proof to believe her husband ordered the genocide of her people. The copy was a final slap in the face to wake Esther to hard realities. Note that he just commanded his daughter; queen or no queen, old habits die hard.
v9-10: Why mention the messenger? Hathach highlights the distance between Esther and Mordecai. While their only physical barrier was a gate and a small walkway, the need for a messenger tells us that they're on different planets in terms of social status. It also screams of the difference in values - her frivolous solution to his grief, losing touch with the realities outside the palace, and her initial resolve to do nothing about the crisis. Esther has become sheltered, spoilt; and poor Hathach was stuck in one awkward turtle moment after another as Mordecai tries to get through to her.
v11: "All the king's servants know" implies that Mordecai knew the rules as well. Surely daddy wouldn't expect his little Hadassah to put herself in danger? I wonder if Esther thought the matter closed, and she absolved of any further responsibilities of her people's blood because of her perceived inability to do anything.
No doubt Esther feared echoing her predecessor's downfall. Where Vashi refused to come when bidden, she would come unbidden. Esther wasn't a perfect heroine, which makes her infinitely more relatable. I really want us to see ourselves in her, with all her flaws, fears, and insecurities. Although she had good reasons for hesitance, stacked next to God, all reasons for disobedience melt away.
The king ignores his wife for weeks on end. Esther was on a very short leash after Vashti and theres trouble in paradise as she finds herself at the beck and call of a man prone to precarious mood swings.
v12: "They." Hathach brought buddies this time, perhaps to protect himself due to the sensitive nature of the conversation. Or perhaps word got around and servants congregated to see this juicy gossip in the making.
v13: Hear the desperation of a father torn and conflicted. On the one hand, of COURSE he wants his little Hadassah safe; on the other, he was painfully aware of God's hand in placing his daughter in a strategic position to save their people. Esther (Persian name) has done such a good job of blending in among the Persians that he felt she needed to be reminded of the fact that she was also Hadassah (her Jewish name).
v14: God is implicitly mentioned in Mordecai's faith in deliverance. Mordecai was a man of great faith not only because of his confidence, but also in attributing Esther's strategic position to save her people to the design and workings of God.
v15-16: Communal prayer is powerful and Esther wanted EVERYONE praying. Note that she herself has an inner circle of girl friends who support her and are willing to fast and pray with her. I love the line "if I perish, I perish." What a powerful statement of commitment, so different from the girl too timid to go unsummoned into her husband's presence.
v17: The verb form of command/order, "Tsavah," is used four times this chapter. Twice from Esther to the eunuch (v5 and 10), once from Mordecai to Esther (v8), and now from Esther to Mordecai (v17). Who is the leader? Who gives the orders and who obeys? See a woman who was humble enough to submit to the wisdom of others and yet has the backbone to take charge when it's required of her. I wonder as Mordecai rushes off to obey his own daughter's command if his heart didn't surge with pride for his little Hadassah. She is finally acting like a queen. You go, girl! (....sorry..)
________________
Reflections:
Have you ever witnessed a public outburst of grief? What was your immediate impulse/response?
Do you think Mordecai regrets not kneeling? Is that a part of his grief?
Some crises are too important to save face, have you ever risked losing something so important that you threw away pride to save it?
* What is your immediate reaction to the hurt/injury of someone you care about? Have you ever focused on the wrong things, like Esther did with Mordecai's modesty?
Grief is sometimes an appropriate response, why do you think mordecai refused the change of clothes?
v8 - Esther was forced to choose between her husband's character and Mordecai's words, ever forced to choose between two people you love/trust?
* Have you ever received harsh advise/orders that required a sacrifice on your part? Does it cause you to doubt the advice giver?
Discuss the dual identity of Esther and Hadassah. Do you ever find yourself juggling multiple identities? If so, why?
We are often guilty of the sins of inaction. We can either sin by doing ignoble things or by leaving noble things undone. Ever notice this in your life? What are some needs you could meet in the lives of those around you but are choosing not to?
* A part of faith is seeing God's hand and purpose in where he places us, and the connections and skills that we are provided. How are you uniquely placed in life (jobs, friends, marriages, etc) with your unique sphere of influence for "such a time as this?"
* Why would Mordecai mourn and wear sackcloth if he had such faith in God's deliverance, with or without Esther? See John 11:35 for an interesting parallel. Does/should faith nullify emotions such as grief or fear?
Did v13 read like a threat to you or can it be read as a message of fatherly love and concern? Ever received harsh words that were said to protect and guide you? What does it take to receive harsh words of love the way Esther did?
* Esther did not go to Xerxes right away even though I imagine it'd be easier to just get it over with ASAP. Why do you think she put off the meeting for 3 days? Do you think Esther was tempted to back out during those 3 days? How did she stay with the game plan? (hint: who were praying with her?) How can this be practically replicated in your life?
What kind of values, worldviews, and support groups does it take to essentially say "if I die doing the will of God, then so be it"? Are you fostering and striving to grow these kinds of values, worldviews, and support groups?
* The bible is clear that wives are to submit to their husbands, yet is filled with glorious examples of godly women leaders. When AND how is it appropriate for women to lead/command a man in a marriage/relationship? Talk about this dichotomy of submission and gentle leadership that God calls his daughters into.
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