Esther chapter 10 - The greatness of Mordecai

Esther chapter 10.

Summary:  King Xerxes, aka King Ahaseurus, had become very powerful with a huge empire. Having a great Prime Minister was beneficial to King Xerxes in exerting power and influence in his empire. Mordecai became a very important person, ranked second to the King. Mordecai was also popular and held in high esteem by the Jews due to his virtues.

The Greatness of Mordecai

10 King Xerxes imposed tribute throughout the empire, to its distant shores. 2 And all his acts of power and might, together with a full account of the greatness of Mordecai, whom the king had promoted, are they not written in the book of the annalsof the kings of Media and Persia?  (NIV)

10 King Ahasuerus laid tribute on the land and on the islands of the sea. 2 All the acts of his power and might, and the full account of the high honor of Mordecai, to which the king advanced him, are they not written in the annals of the kings of Media and Persia?  (RSV)

10 And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea.

2 And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai, whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia?  (KJV)

King Xerxes, also known as King Ahaserus, was king of a powerful empire, with many lands and islands paying tribute. 
The power and might of King Xerxes, and the greatness of Mordecai, was recorded in book of chronicles of the Media and Persia. In the book of Esther, we don't get to read about them much. For the Book of Esther focused on matters most relevant to Jews.  

Book of Esther has focused on the rise of Esther to be Queen, Mordecai saving the King's life, Haman's plot to destroy and annihilate the Jews, Mordecai honoured for saving the King's life,the plea by Esther for the lives, the Jews' victory against their enemies, the establishment of Purim celebration.

3 Mordecai the Jew was second in rank to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all the Jews.  (NIV)

3 For Mordecai the Jew was next in rank to King Ahasuerus, and he was powerful among the Jews and popular with his many kindred, for he sought the good of his people and interceded for the welfare of all his descendants.  (RSV)

3 For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.  (KJV)

Mordecai was powerful in the kingdom/empire. He was ranked second to King Xerxes.
At the same, Mordecai was much respected and honoured by the Jews. The Jews looked highly upon Mordecai.

Management concept:  To be honoured and respected, a Top Leader must:
1) Be popular among the people.
2) Care for the good of the people.
3) Seek not to enrich himself, but seek to enrich the people,
4) Speak up and fight for the welfare of the people.

This goes to back to the commandment: "Love your neighbour as yourself."
If a Top Leader could love his people, he would be loved, respected and honoured by his people.


Thursday, Jan 2, 2014.
Michael Yeap.

NIV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%2010&version=NIV 

RSV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%2010&version=NRSV 

KJV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%2010&version=KJV 

Commentaries:  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.10.1-Esth.10.3-1847 

Esther chapter 9 - The triumph of the Jews

Esther chapter 9.

Summary:  On 13th day of 12th month (Adar), the one-day battle between the Jews and their enemies happened. With the hand of God, and assistance from the officers, the Jews were victorious. Jews killed 500 men and ten sons of Haman in Susa city. In the provinces, Jews killed 75,000 men.  Queen Esther requested King Xerxes for another day for Jews to attack their enemies in Susa city. On 14th day of 12th month (Adar), Jews in Susa killed another 300 men. Jews in the provinces rested, and celebrated their victory on the 14th day. Jews in Susa city rested and celebrated their victory on 15th day. Mordecai had sent out letters to all Jews throughout the kingdom/empire to establish Purim, an annual festival to celebrate and commemorate this event which turned form sorrow to joy, remembering God's way in the deliverance of the Jews from their enemies.

The Triumph of the Jews

9 On the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar, the edict commanded by the king was to be carried out. On this day the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, but now the tables were turned and the Jews got the upper hand over those who hated them. 2 The Jews assembled in their cities in all the provinces of King Xerxes to attack those determined to destroy them. No one could stand against them, because the people of all the other nationalities were afraid of them. 3 And all the nobles of the provinces, the satraps, the governors and the king’s administrators helped the Jews,because fear of Mordecai had seized them. 4 Mordecai was prominent in the palace; his reputation spread throughout the provinces, and he became more and more powerful. (NIV)

9 Now in the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king’s command and edict were about to be executed, on the very day when the enemies of the Jews hoped to get the mastery over them, but which had been changed to a day when the Jews should get the mastery over their foes, 2 the Jews gathered in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasu-e′rus to lay hands on such as sought their hurt. And no one could make a stand against them, for the fear of them had fallen upon all peoples. 3 All the princes of the provinces and the satraps and the governors and the royal officials also helped the Jews, for the fear of Mor′decai had fallen upon them. 4 For Mor′decai was great in the king’s house, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for the man Mor′decai grew more and more powerful.  (RSV)

On the day as per earlier and latter edict/decree, the Jews gathered in the various cities of all the provinces to defend and attack their enemies.  The enemies and attackers were said to be mainly Amalekites, and Haman was a Amalekite. Tens sons of Haman were furious with the execution of their father, and confiscation of  their estate.  Ten sons of Haman were aggressively arming themselves and wanted make use of the first edict/decree to attack and destroy the Jews.

In this battle (one day civil war), the Jews had the upper hand. God was on their side. Other races were fearful of the Jews, and most did not attack the Jews. So only the enemies that hated the Jews very much would attack and battle against the Jews. The officers of the various provinces were also helping the Jews. This was because Mordecai was growing in influence and power.  By assisting the Jews, they hope to find favour with Mordecai.

Application:  If God is for us, many people will be making way for us. We will get support and assistance from other people. People will want to be on the same side as us.

5 The Jews struck down all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them, and they did what they pleased to those who hated them. 6 In the citadel of Susa, the Jews killed and destroyed five hundred men.7 They also killed Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, 8 Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, 9 Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai and Vaizatha, 10 the ten sons of Haman son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews. But they did not lay their hands on the plunder.  (NIV)

The Jews were victorious in the one-day battle. In Susa city, Jews killed 500 men, and the ten sons of Haman. However, the Jews did not plunder and seize the assets of their enemies.

The Jews killed only their armed enemies and attackers. They did not kill the women and children. By not plundering and seizing the assets of their enemies, the surviving family members of the killed enemies could still survive with their assets untouched. This would bring long-term peace with their enemies. If the Jews also killed the unarmed family members of their attackers, and plundered the assets of their attackers, this would increase the animosity, and the enemies would seek revenge in near future.

Management concept:  In battle with enemies, do not overkill. In competition with competitors, we may aim to win, but do not "kill off" the competitors. Be merciful.

11 The number of those killed in the citadel of Susa was reported to the king that same day. 12 The king said to Queen Esther, “The Jews have killed and destroyed five hundred men and the ten sons of Haman in the citadel of Susa. What have they done in the rest of the king’s provinces? Now what is your petition? It will be given you. What is your request? It will also be granted.”

13 “If it pleases the king,” Esther answered, “give the Jews in Susa permission to carry out this day’s edict tomorrow also, and let Haman’s ten sons be impaled on poles.”

14 So the king commanded that this be done. An edict was issued in Susa, and they impaled the ten sons of Haman. 15 The Jews in Susa came together on the fourteenth day of the month of Adar, and they put to death in Susa three hundred men, but they did not lay their hands on the plunder.  (NIV)

Result of the one-day battle was reported to the King. King Xerxes, confident that his beloved wife would be happy with the result, reported to Queen Esther that the Jews had killed 500 men and ten sons of Haman in Susa city.

King Xerxes asked Queen Esther if she had any other petition or request.  In humility "if it pleases the King, ...", Esther made 2 request:
1)  Repeat the latter edict (to attack the enemies and attackers) for a second day on the next day.
2)  Hang the ten dead sons of Haman on the gallows.

Maybe some of the enemies and attackers in Susa city managed to escape, the Jews thought they need to get rid of his remainder to ensure future peace, hence Queen Esther requested a second day for the Jews to attack their enemies who want to to destroy them.

Hanging the 10 dead sons of Haman on the gallows would serve as example to all other races in Susa city. This was a demonstration of might and power, so that the other people would not dare to be enemies of the Jews. Enemies of Jews would think twice before attacking or plotting to destroy the Jews.

16 Meanwhile, the remainder of the Jews who were in the king’s provinces also assembled to protect themselves and get relief from their enemies. They killed seventy-five thousand of them but did not lay their hands on the plunder. 17 This happened on the thirteenth day of the month of Adar, and on the fourteenth they rested and made it a day of feasting and joy.  (NIV)

The Jews in the provinces were also victorious. Jews in the provinces killed 75,000 men, but did not plunder the assets of the enemies and attackers. Mordecai must have coordinated with the Jews all over the kingdom/empire that the assets of enemies must not be plundered.  This was a wise strategy. Giving the enemy a living chance after the battle is important. This would reduce the chance of the enemy seeking vengeance.

Management concept:  When we deal with our enemies and competitors, we need to be reasonable and realistic.  Do not push them too hard. Enough is enough. Winning is enough. We do NOT seek the total destruction of the enemies and competitors.

18 The Jews in Susa, however, had assembled on the thirteenth and fourteenth, and then on the fifteenth they rested and made it a day of feasting and joy.

19 That is why rural Jews—those living in villages—observe the fourteenth of the month of Adaras a day of joy and feasting, a day for giving presents to each other.  (NIV)

Purim Established

20 Mordecai recorded these events, and he sent letters to all the Jews throughout the provinces of King Xerxes, near and far, 21 to have them celebrate annually the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar 22 as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.  (NIV)

Purim festival was thus established, to commemorate this victorious event, an event which turned from sorrow to joy, from day of mourning to day of victory celebration.

Application:  Remember God for His hand in helping us through our ups and downs, our successes and failures, our trials and tribulations. Count our blessings. Thank God for everything.

23 So the Jews agreed to continue the celebration they had begun, doing what Mordecai had written to them. 24 For Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had plotted against the Jews to destroy them and had cast the pur (that is, the lot) for their ruin and destruction. 25 But when the plot came to the king’s attention, he issued written orders that the evil scheme Haman had devised against the Jews should come back onto his own head,and that he and his sons should be impaled on poles.26 (Therefore these days were called Purim, from the word pur.) Because of everything written in this letter and because of what they had seen and what had happened to them, 27 the Jews took it on themselves to establish the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should without fail observe these two days every year, in the way prescribed and at the time appointed. 28 These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province and in every city. And these days of Purim should never fail to be celebrated by the Jews—nor should the memory of these days die out among their descendants.

29 So Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim. 30 And Mordecai sent letters to all the Jews in the 127 provinces of Xerxes’ kingdom—words of goodwill and assurance— 31 to establish these days of Purim at their designated times, as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had decreed for them, and as they had established for themselves and their descendants in regard to their times of fasting and lamentation.32 Esther’s decree confirmed these regulations about Purim, and it was written down in the records. (NIV)

Mordecai wrote the first letter concerning the Purim to be celebrated annually. Queen Esther and Mordecai wrote the second letter in full authority to double confirm the Purim celebration. These letters were sent to all 127 provinces.

Mordecai was powerful and influential. Queen Esther was also powerful, maybe even more powerful. Because in the 2nd letter, it was signed by both Queen Esther and Mordecai. With 2 very powerful Jews in the kingdom, the Jews had finally found ease living in this new land of captivity.

God will bless us wherever we go, wherever we are. God will protect us from our enemies. God will make a way, when there seems to be no way. God is omnipresent, and omnipotent. Hallelujah.

Wednesday, Jan 1, 2014.
Michael Yeap.

NIV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%209&version=NIV

RSV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%209&version=RSV

KJV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%209&version=KJV

Commentaries:
1)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.9.1-Esth.9.19
2)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.9.20-Esth.9.32

Esther chapter 8 - The King's Edict in Behalf of the Jews

Esther chapter 8.

Summary:  Queen Esther pleaded again with King Xerxes for the lives of her people and her family. King Xerxes finally decided to give Esther and Mordecai a "blank check" on what best CounterAction to preserve the lives of the Jews. Mordecai wrote out the edict/decree sealed by the King, authorizing all the Jews the right to organise to arm, defend, and attack their enemies on the same day that their enemies were authorized to kill and destroy them. 

The King's Edict in Behalf of the Jews.

8 That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. 2 The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman’s estate. (NIV)

The King gave the estate of Haman (house. land, money) to Queen Esther. Although Esther did not ask God for wealth and riches, somehow God had made way for Esther to gain abundance of wealth.

Esther had introduced her guardian and cousin was Mordecai. King also remembered Mordecai as the foreign man who saved his life from assassination plot by his officers. King owed his life to Mordecai. Queen Esther, an orphan, also owed her life to Mordecai, who raised her up. What a coincidence.

Mordecai came into the King's presence.  King Xerxes had a chat with Mordecai. King expressed his gratitude to Mordecai.

Esther had never asked for any of her relatives and friends to be promoted in any government position yet. King felt it was rightful to give a government post to Esther's cousin who also helped save his life.

Subsequently, King Xerxes appointed Mordecai to take over Haman's job.  What a big promotion was given to Mordecai.

God has his plans. His plans for the good of the people. We may not know His plan for us. At times, it seems to be bad. Eventually, things turn out to be better.

The Jews were taken as captives to Babylon and its empire. Then, a Jewish girl became the wife and Queen of the King. At one time, it seemed that the Jews would be annihilated, Esther managed to talk to the King, and the King executed the man responsible for planning to annihilate the Jews. Another Jewish was appointed the most powerful position, second after the King. All these were part of God's greater plan, to show that God loves his people, and would not forsake them.

3 Esther again pleaded with the king, falling at his feet and weeping. She begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews. 4 Then the king extended the gold scepter to Esther and she arose and stood before him.

5 “If it pleases the king,” she said, “and if he regards me with favor and thinks it the right thing to do, and if he is pleased with me, let an order be written overruling the dispatches that Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, devised and wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces. 6 For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?”  (NIV)

3 Then Esther spoke again to the king; she fell at his feet and besought him with tears to avert the evil design of Haman the Ag′agite and the plot which he had devised against the Jews. 4 And the king held out the golden scepter to Esther, 5 and Esther rose and stood before the king. And she said, “If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his sight, and if the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let an order be written to revoke the letters devised by Haman the Ag′agite, the son of Hammeda′tha, which he wrote to destroy the Jews who are in all the provinces of the king. 6 For how can I endure to see the calamity that is coming to my people? Or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?”  (KJV)


Esther's first was petition for her own life. Esther's second was request for the lives of her people, the Jews. King Xerxes had granted her first petition, and had executed Haman, the person who plotted to kill the Jews. King had given the estate of Haman to Esther.

However, Esther continue to plead in full humility (falling at the King's feet and weeping with tears). Esther pleaded for the retraction of the edict/decree to destroy the Jews in all the King's provinces.  She pleaded using soft approach, in full humility: “If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his sight, and if the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, ..."

Application: Ladies have a very powerful method to appeal to their men: tears. Many men, even those who are strong-minded and hard-headed, will their heart softened when their wives/girlfriends asked with tears.

Again here, Esther gave her 2 justification for her plea:
1) She could not bear to see the destruction of her people.
2) She could not bear to see the destruction of her family. Mordecai and Esther might be save inside the palace, but all the Jews outside would be attacked and killed.
She would be filled with sorrow and grief if that fateful day of destruction proceeded as per the edict/decree. Surely, the King would not be pleased with a sorrowful Queen. A sorrowful Queen would not be able to please, entertain and satisfy the King.
Esther played on the emotion of the King.

7 King Xerxes replied to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, “Because Haman attacked the Jews, I have given his estate to Esther, and they have impaled him on the pole he set up. 8 Now write another decree in the king’s name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king’s signet ring—for no document written in the king’s name and sealed with his ring can be revoked.”  (NIV)

7 Then King Ahasu-e′rus said to Queen Esther and to Mor′decai the Jew, “Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and they have hanged him on the gallows, because he would lay hands on the Jews.8 And you may write as you please with regard to the Jews, in the name of the king, and seal it with the king’s ring; for an edict written in the name of the king and sealed with the king’s ring cannot be revoked.  (RSV)

Earlier, we read about Queen Esther pleading to the King, Now here, we read about the King's decision given to Esther and Mordecai. After Queen Esther pleaded with King Xerxes with tears and in full humility, the King's heart was moved. King summoned Mordecai. Mordecai, Esther and the King probably discussed about this matter at length. What we read in verses 7 and 8 were more like the Judge giving the final verdict, at the end of the hearing.

For the final verdict, King had his introduction statement that as Haman had plotted to kill the Queen's people, Haman had been punished by hanging to death at gallows, and Haman's assets were confiscated and given to Esther as compensation. King Xerxes then delivered the verdict that he would sign and seal another edict/decree. As for the content of the edict/decree, it would be as per the wish of Esther and Mordecai. The King had given the free hand for Esther and Mordecai to decide what was best for the Jews. King explained that any edict/decree issued by the King could not be revoke.

Fantastic!  This was the best verdict for the Jews. Esther and Mordecai were given a "blank check" to write "whatever", and the King promised to sign and seal it.

As children of God, we are given "free hand" to decide how we want to run our lives. God had given us his Word through the bible. It is up to us to decide how much do we want to obey and follow his word.  Let us remember our kind and gracious God. Let us strive to walk close with God. Let us remember God in everything we plan, in everything we do, big or small. For our God is a caring and loving God.

9 At once the royal secretaries were summoned—on the twenty-third day of the third month, the month of Sivan. They wrote out all Mordecai’s orders to the Jews, and to the satraps, governors and nobles of the 127 provinces stretching from India to Cush. These orders were written in the script of each province and the language of each people and also to the Jews in their own script and language. 10 Mordecai wrote in the name of King Xerxes, sealed the dispatches with the king’s signet ring, and sent them by mounted couriers, who rode fast horses especially bred for the king.  (NIV)

Haman had an edict/decree sealed by King which was sent to all provinces, to destroy the Jews. Mordecai the Jew had another edict/decree seal by King, sent out to all provinces, to counter the earlier edict/decree.

11 The king’s edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate the armed men of any nationality or province who might attack them and their women and children, and to plunder the property of their enemies. 12 The day appointed for the Jews to do this in all the provinces of King Xerxes was the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar. 13 A copy of the text of the edict was to be issued as law in every province and made known to the people of every nationality so that the Jews would be ready on that day to avenge themselves on their enemies.

14 The couriers, riding the royal horses, went out, spurred on by the king’s command, and the edict was issued in the citadel of Susa.  (NIV)

10 The writing was in the name of King Ahasu-e′rus and sealed with the king’s ring, and letters were sent by mounted couriers riding on swift horses that were used in the king’s service, bred from the royal stud. 11 By these the king allowed the Jews who were in every city to gather and defend their lives, to destroy, to slay, and to annihilate any armed force of any people or province that might attack them, with their children and women, and to plunder their goods, 12 upon one day throughout all the provinces of King Ahasu-e′rus, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar.  (RSV)

10 And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed it with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, and riders on mules, camels, and young dromedaries:

11 Wherein the king granted the Jews which were in every city to gather themselves together, and to stand for their life, to destroy, to slay and to cause to perish, all the power of the people and province that would assault them, both little ones and women, and to take the spoil of them for a prey,

12 Upon one day in all the provinces of king Ahasuerus, namely, upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar.  (KJV)

Mordecai and Esther were wise in devising the counteraction plan. Mordecai was most likely a learned, intelligent and wise man. Mordecai thought of giving the Jews the right for an organised defensive plan which was also inclusive of preemptive attack.  The right to plan, organise, defend, and attach potential attackers, and plunder assets of attachers/potential attackers was great.

This edict/decree would give sufficient time for the Jews to organise, plan. strategize, train, arm themselves for the day of battle.  In battles, planning, strategies, organising and training the fighting force would be very important for success.  With Esther the Jew as the Queen and Mordecai the Jew as the Prime Minister, the non-Jews were starting to see the Jews as powerful and influential. With this new edict/decree, all the Jews in all 127 provinces throughout the kingdom/empire were organizing and arming themselves into fighting force. These caused fear among the other races. Imagine hundred of thousands of Jews, men and women, holding arms, marching and training, all these happening in every city. What a show of force! These fighting force are influenced by the Prim Minister Mordecai, the second in command, second after the King.

With good planning, half the Success is assured.
Unity is a huge force. With unity, the enemy will be fearful. With unity, we have better probability of success.

Wisdom is important. King Xerxes had given Queen Esther and Mordecai a blank check, a blank edict/decree to be filled up.  It was up to the wisdom and intelligence of Esther and Mordecai to plan and strategize what was the best Counter Action by the Jews which was fair and reasonable.

The Triumph of the Jews

15 When Mordecai left the king’s presence, he was wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration.16 For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor. 17 In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them.  (NIV)

Mordecai was highly esteemed and greatly honoired.  He was wearing royal garment, purple robe, a golden crown. His status was very high. Purple color was the royal color, just as in the oriental nations, yellow is the royal color. Golden crown is also another royal symbol.

With this new edict/decree, all the Jews saw salvation and deliverance, hence, there was joy and happiness. The Jews were now thinking and feeling positive, that they have a fighting chance against their enemies and attackers. The Jews were also positive because the Prime Minister is a Jew, and the Queen is also a Jew. The Jews saw that God did not forget them, God had a plan of deliverance and salvation for them.

Fear of the Jews grew, and some non-Jews pretended to be Jews. The Jews suddenly found more allies than ever. Probably, some enemies also decided to make peace with the Jews, at that time.

7 “The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you; they shall come out against you one way, and flee before you seven ways.  (Deuteronomy 28:7) (KJV)

7 The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven.  (Deuteronomy 28:7) (NIV)

7 A thousand may fall at your side,
    ten thousand at your right hand;
    but it will not come near you.
8 You will only look with your eyes
    and see the recompense of the wicked.

9 Because you have made the Lord your refuge,
    the Most High your habitation,
10 no evil shall befall you,
    no scourge come near your tent.  (Psalms 91:7-10) (RSV)

God loves His people. God does not forsake His people. God will protect His people from their enemies.

Tuesday, Dec 31, 2013.
Michael Yeap.

NIV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%208&version=NIV

RSV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%208&version=RSV

KJV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%208&version=KJV

Commentaries:
1)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.8.1-Esth.8.2
2)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.8.3-Esth.8.14
3)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.8.15-Esth.8.17

Esther chapter 6 - Mordecai honoured

Esther Chapter 6.

Mordecai Honoured.

6 That night the king could not sleep; so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and read to him. 2 It was found recorded there that Mordecai had exposed Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s officers who guarded the doorway, who had conspired to assassinate King Xerxes.

3 “What honor and recognition has Mordecai received for this?” the king asked.

“Nothing has been done for him,”his attendants answered.  (NIV)

6 On that night the king could not sleep; and he gave orders to bring the book of memorable deeds, the chronicles, and they were read before the king. 2 And it was found written how Mor′decai had told about Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs, who guarded the threshold, and who had sought to lay hands upon King Ahasu-e′rus. 3 And the king said, “What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mor′decai for this?” The king’s servants who attended him said, “Nothing has been done for him.”  (RSV)

Application:  We should recall on the good things that God had blessed us. We should thank and praise God for every good thing and event in our life. We should count our blessings.

Application:  We should think of the good things our subordinates, our peers, our superiors, our customers, our vendors, our friends, our family and relatives have done to us. We should appreciate and thank them. Say something nice to them. Recognize them. This will help us improve our relations with other people. This will help us fulfil the commandment of "Love your neighbour as yourself."

Earlier on, although Mordecai discovered and reported the plot to assassinate  the King, Mordecai had not been recognized, honoured and rewarded. When the King knew about it as the book of chronicles was read to him, King Xerxes decided to reward and honour Mordecai. Reward was better late than never.

It is easy for the high-level people to forget the good deeds of the lower-level people. If we are at the top management, we must remember and notice not only the middle management, we must must also take note of the contribution of the lower-rung people and ordinary workers.

4 The king said, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the palace to speak to the king about impaling Mordecai on the pole he had set up for him.

5 His attendants answered, “Haman is standing in the court.”

“Bring him in,” the king ordered.  (NIV)

4 And the king said, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the king’s palace to speak to the king about having Mor′decai hanged on the gallows that he had prepared for him.5 So the king’s servants told him, “Haman is there, standing in the court.” And the king said, “Let him come in.”  (RSV)

The night before, Haman had a banquet dinner with King Xerxes and Queen Esther. He bragged about his successes and expressed his disdain for Mordecai who did not pay respect to him. His relatives suggesting constructing a high gallows to hang Mordecai. Early in the morning, Haman hurried to see King Xerxes. He wanted to get the King's order/consent to hang Mordecai.
On the other hand, the night before, King Xerxes had discovered that Mordecai had saved his life. Mordecai had discovered an assassination plot and had yet to be honoured and rewarded. In the morning, King Xerxes was still thinking about how to honour and reward the person who saved his life.
The first person that came into the palace to see the King was Haman. The King was pleased to ask Haman's opinion. After all, Haman is the King's most trusted person, the King's right-hand man.

6 When Haman entered, the king asked him, “What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?”

Now Haman thought to himself, “Who is there that the king would rather honor than me?” 7 So he answered the king, “For the man the king delights to honor, 8 have them bring a royal robe the king has worn and a horse the king has ridden, one with a royal crest placed on its head. 9 Then let the robe and horse be entrusted to one of the king’s most noble princes. Let them robe the man the king delights to honor, and lead him on the horse through the city streets, proclaiming before him, ‘This is what is done for the man the king delights to honor!’”  (NIV)

Management concept:  It is good to have self-confidence. However, we should be over-confident.

Application: We serve God, we remain dedicated, committed and faithful to God. We think God will definitely want to use us. When the Leadership election/appointment is done, we don't get elected/appointed into the Leadership position, we feel so disappointed.
Do not be over-confident. God works in amazing and surprising way. We don't know God's plan. God has a plan and purpose. Our intelligence will tell us that Route A is good and God will open the door A. Instead, God closes the door A and opens another door B.

When King Xerxes asked Haman how best to honour the man that the King delights, Haman automatically thought that the person to be honoured would be Haman himself. Why? Just the night before, Haman had the privilege and top honour of a closed-door banquet dinner with King and Queen. Secondly, Haman was the King's favourite person, often dining and drinking with the King. Thirdly, Haman was the second most powerful person, second after the King. Who else did the King wanted to honour if not Haman?

Haman was thinking of the highest possible honour he himself could obtain. He wanted something closest to what the King had. Thus he suggested the highest honour.
1) Royal robe - which had been worn by the King.
2) Royal horse - which has been ridden by the King, with royal crest on the horse's head.
3) The most noble prince to robe the Honoured Person with royal robe, lead the Honoured person to the royal horse.
4) The most noble prince to lead the Honoured Person throughout the city proclaiming ‘This is what is done for the man the king delights to honor!’

10 “Go at once,” the king commanded Haman. “Get the robe and the horse and do just as you have suggested for Mordecai the Jew, who sits at the king’s gate. Do not neglect anything you have recommended.”

11 So Haman got the robe and the horse. He robed Mordecai, and led him on horseback through the city streets, proclaiming before him, “This is what is done for the man the king delights to honor!”  (NIV)

Haman had suggested a very high level of honour to be bestowed. As the King was veru grateful to Mordecai who saved his life, King Xerxes agreed to Haman's suggestion. In fact, King Xerxes told Haman to implement everything that he proposed, not leaving out anything.

Haman had to eat the humble pie. Instead of Haman getting King's consent to hang Mordecai, Haman being the highest-level noble had to robe Mordecai with royal robe, seat Mordecai on the royal horse, and lead Mordecai throughout the Susa city proclaiming the King's honour upon Mordecai.

12 Afterward Mordecai returned to the king’s gate. But Haman rushed home, with his head covered in grief, 13 and told Zeresh his wife and all his friends everything that had happened to him.

His advisers and his wife Zeresh said to him, “Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has started, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him—you will surely come to ruin!” 14 While they were still talking with him, the king’s eunuchs arrived and hurried Haman away to the banquet Esther had prepared.  (NIV)

A sudden turn of event. Haman was the King's favourite. Because Mordecai had discover the assassination plot and thus saved the King's life, the King has bestowed high-level of honour upon Mordecai. Haman was feeling grief, that he might soon be displaced.

When he discussed about the event with his advisers and his wife, they predicted Haman's downfall. Haman was scheming against Mordecai and the Jews, planning to destroy and annihilate them. Suddenly, the scenario had changed. Mordecai, a Jew, is now deemed by the King as his saviour. The King was grateful to Mordecai, and had given Mordecai a high-level of honour.

Before he could ponder further, the King's eunuchs had arrived to fetch Haman to the banquet dinner of Queen Esther.

Management concept:  Do not be too proud or confident of our current success. Times can change. Success can suddenly reverse.
We can be the Top Leader. However, at any time, without foreseen notice, the Top Leadership could be changed over to someone else. Maybe to someone that we have never thought off.

Success is not forever. Riches and wealth is not forever. Power and honor is not forever.

Nothing is permanent except Change.

Monday, Dec 30, 2013.
Michael Yeap.

NIV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%206&version=NIV

RSV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%206&version=RSV

KJV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%206&version=KJV

Commentaries:
1)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.6.1-Esth.6.3
2)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.6.4-Esth.6.11
3)  http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/matthew-henry/Esth.6.12-Esth.6.14

Esther chapter 4 - Mordecai persuades Esther to help

Esther chapter 4.

Mordecai Persuades Esther to Help

4 When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly.2 But he went only as far as the king’s gate, because no one clothed in sackcloth was allowed to enter it.3 In every province to which the edict and order of the king came, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping and wailing. Many lay in sackcloth and ashes.  (NIV)

4 When Mor′decai learned all that had been done, Mor′decai rent his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, wailing with a loud and bitter cry;2 he went up to the entrance of the king’s gate, for no one might enter the king’s gate clothed with sackcloth. 3 And in every province, wherever the king’s command and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting and weeping and lamenting, and most of them lay in sackcloth and ashes.  (RSV)

4 When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry;

2 And came even before the king's gate: for none might enter into the king's gate clothed with sackcloth.

3 And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.  (KJV)

When the edict was publicized, Mordecai was very sorrowful and filled with repentance. He tore his clothes and put sackcloth and lay in ashes. Sackcloth and ashes is a symbol of morning and repentance in the Old Testament.
In every provinces throughout the kingdom/empire, there was great morning and repentance among the Jews. Fasting, weeping, wailing and laying in sackcloth and ashes. All the Jews were grieved and sorrowful because they know they will be killed and annihilated on that fateful day (as announced in the King's edict), and their assets/properties will be plundered by their attackers.

Question: Why did Mordecai go out into the city centre to show his sorrow and repentance?
Possible Reasons:
1)  To publicly show the sorrow and repentance to all, including Jews and non-Jews.
2)  To encourage the Jews to do the same, to repent and pray for deliverance from God.
3)  To publicly acknowledge that he is a Jew. By such sorrowful reaction to the  King's edict to destroy and annihilate the Jews, everyone who saw his weeping and wailing would know he is a Jew. Other Jews, when they do the same, are also revealing their ethnicity. Resulting in some form of unified action and unified thinking.

Unity is important if the Jews are to defend themselves against their enemies and attackers. Unity enables coordinated and organised defense.  

4 When Esther’s eunuchs and female attendants came and told her about Mordecai, she was in great distress. She sent clothes for him to put on instead of his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.5 Then Esther summoned Hathak, one of the king’s eunuchs assigned to attend her, and ordered him to find out what was troubling Mordecai and why.  (NIV)

4 When Esther’s maids and her eunuchs came and told her, the queen was deeply distressed; she sent garments to clothe Mor′decai, so that he might take off his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.  (RSV)

4 So Esther's maids and her chamberlains came and told it her. Then was the queen exceedingly grieved; and she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, and to take away his sackcloth from him: but he received it not.  (KJV)

When Queen Esther heard about Mordecai and Jews' weeping, wailing, laying in sackcloth and ashes, she also shared the sorrow despite not knowing what has happened or what was to happen.  
Esther sent proper clothes to Mordecai to change, but Mordecai refused to stop the mourning. Removal of the sackcloth was like the ending of the mourning. The Jews were already in terrible fate, having become captives and brought from their homeland to Babylon and Babylonian provinces. Now, the Jews will suffer a greater fate, this time total destruction and annihilation of their race.  So, how could Mordecai stop mourning?  Mordecai was rightful to continue mourning...until a solution of deliverance is known and decided.

7 Mordecai told him everything that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury for the destruction of the Jews. 8 He also gave him a copy of the text of the edict for their annihilation, which had been published in Susa, to show to Esther and explain it to her, and he told him to instruct her to go into the king’s presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.  (NIV)

7 and Mor′decai told him all that had happened to him, and the exact sum of money that Haman had promised to pay into the king’s treasuries for the destruction of the Jews. 8 Mor′decai also gave him a copy of the written decree issued in Susa for their destruction, that he might show it to Esther and explain it to her and charge her to go to the king to make supplication to him and entreat him for her people. 9 And Hathach went and told Esther what Mor′decai had said.  (RSV)

Mordecai explained everything that happened to the messenger, which the messenger would inform Esther. Mordecai mentioned every detail, including the promise of monies contribution for destruction of Jews.
For additional proof, Mordecai handed a copy of the King's edict/decree to the messenger, to be forwarded to Esther.
Mordecai requested Esther to appeal to the King, for the lives of the Jews.

Communication concept:
1. Tell all the important facts, not leaving any small but important details.
2. Show the documented evidence to support the facts.
3. If communicating through an intermediary, documented evidence plays a vital role.

9 Hathak went back and reported to Esther what Mordecai had said. 10 Then she instructed him to say to Mordecai, 11 “All the king’s officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that they be put to death unless the king extends the gold scepter to them and spares their lives. But thirty days have passed since I was called to go to the king.”  (NIV)

Although King Xerxes was in love with Esther, she did not get to see him every day or sleep with him every night. The King had hundreds of concubines, so he sleeps with a different woman every night.
Seeing the King without being summoned would anger the King. The King most likely did not want to be bothered by any one of his hundreds of women. The King most likely did not want to be bothered by walk-in guests, including his generals, governors, princes, officials.
Seeing the King without an appointment (without being summoned) is a No-No.  It is like....impossible to meet an important CEO without prior appointment.

12 When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai,13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”  (NIV)

14 For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”  (RSV)

14 For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?  (KJV)

Mordecai appealed for Esther's the second time. Mordecai persuaded by emphasizing on 4 facts:
1)  Esther will be safe and alive even if she doesn't appeal to the King on behalf of the Jews.
2)  The Jews might be able to organize and defend themselves, especially in the outer provinces. There will be survivors among the Jews. Probably, NOT all the Jews will die.
3)  Esther's relative, particularly Mordecai himself, and other relatives living in Susa city will die.
4)  There is a purpose by God..... Esther becoming Queen. Probably Esther would be God's answer for the deliverance of the Jews from their enemies.

The last fact was the most important.
Management concept: Sometimes, the last point is THE MOST IMPORTANT point.
The last point was probably the most convincing statement for Esther to take the risk of losing her life to go into the King's presence without being summoned.

15 Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”  (NIV)

15 Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer,

16 Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.  (KJV)

When Mordecai first requested her to appeal to the King, Esther was fearful and afraid to see the King without being summoned, afraid to lose her life. When Mordecai requested her the second time, deliberating the 4 facts including God's purpose for Esther to become the Queen, she had become daring, and ready to pay the price of death for going to see the King without being summoned. Noted that she was still fearful although willing and ready to die. (Following the law was important in Susa. Queen Vashti was divorced/demoted because she refused to follow the King's instruction. Furthermore, Queen Esther seemed to be a submissive and obedient person. She would follow the law, hence, fearful to see the King without being summoned, because such was the rule.)

Queen Esther wanted a great fasting (3 days, 3 nights, no eating nor drinking). She wanted the Jews seriously cry out to God for His hand, for God to help Esther in effectively appealing to the King to cancel the edict/decree for the one-day destruction of Jews throughout the entire kingdom/empire.

Application: Pray and fast. If we need God's hand in certain crucial situation, we should pray and fast.
God will give us the wisdom to plan and decide on the wise course of actions in the crucial situation.

17 So Mordecai went away and carried out all of Esther’s instructions.  (NIV)

17 Mor′decai then went away and did everything as Esther had ordered him. (RSV)

17 So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him.  (KJV)

Mordecai carried out the actions according to Esther's instruction/order/command. Mordecai, although the guardian or foster father, listened and obeyed Esther's instruction.

Any wise instruction should be obeyed. Any wise advice should be considered and accepted.
God can work in wondrous ways, in surprising manner. God could work through anybody.
Do NOT think that God can only use pious and seemingly spiritual believers. God also can make use of ordinary people. God can also make use of "bad" people. Depending on the task, God could be making use of anybody to serve His purpose.

Sat, Dec 28, 2013.
Michael Yeap

NIV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%204&version=NIV

RSV:  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther%204&version=RSV

KJV: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esther4&version=KJV