She's in the palace, a queen, seemingly secure. But then, her attendants bring unsettling news: Mordecai, her kinsman and advisor, is outside the palace gates, draped in sackcloth and covered in ashes. Can you imagine the shock?
Esther, as the text says, "knew naught of what was happening at court." She's completely in the dark about Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews. And the news of Mordecai's mourning hits her hard. So hard, in fact, that she's overcome with fright and loses the joy of expecting a child. It really drives home just how deeply connected she is to her people, even in her position of privilege.
She immediately sends clothes to Mordecai, hoping he'll remove the symbols of grief. But Mordecai refuses. He won't lay aside his mourning until God brings about a miracle for Israel.
This is powerful stuff. It reminds us of other figures in Jewish history who displayed similar unwavering faith and commitment, even in the face of immense suffering. The text draws parallels to Jacob, David, and Ahab, and even to the people of Nineveh during the time of Jonah. He's following in the footsteps of giants!
According to Legends of the Jews, Mordecai wouldn't put on court attire while his people were in danger. His loyalty is absolute.
Esther then sends for Daniel, also known as Hathach in the Scriptures. Wait, Daniel? The same Daniel from the Book of Daniel? Some traditions identify him as the Hathach mentioned here, acting as Esther's messenger. She asks him to find out from Mordecai exactly why he is mourning. She is desperate to know what is going on.
What does this moment tell us? It speaks to the weight of responsibility, the burden of leadership. Esther's sheltered existence is about to be shattered, and she's on the cusp of a profound awakening. Are we ready to see what comes next?