What role did fear play in the officials' support for the Jews? Context: A Kingdom Suddenly on Edge “On the thirteenth day of the twelfth month… the Jews gathered in their cities… and no one could stand against them, because the fear of them had fallen on every people” (Esther 9:1–2). Fear Grips the Power Structure “ And all the rulers of the provinces, the satraps, the governors, and the king’s administrators assisted the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai had fallen on them” (Esther 9:3). Why the Officials Were Afraid • Mordecai’s meteoric rise: “For Mordecai was great in the king’s palace, and his fame spread throughout the provinces; and he became more and more powerful” (Esther 9:4). • Royal backing: The king’s own edict now empowered the Jews (Esther 8:7–12). Opposing the Jews meant opposing the king. • Visible providence: The dramatic reversal—from condemned minority to protected people—signaled that a higher hand was working. Compare: – Genesis 35:5 “The terror of God fell upon the cities… so they did not pursue Jacob’s sons.” – Joshua 2:9–11 “We have heard how the LORD dried up the waters… our hearts melted.” • Personal survival: Aligning with Mordecai assured political safety; resisting him threatened position and life. Fear Redirected into Support Because fear had “fallen on them,” officials did more than remain neutral: • They “assisted” (Esther 9:3) — providing logistics and protection. • They ensured the Jews could “defend themselves” unhindered (Esther 8:11). • They enforced royal authority that favored the Jews, not their enemies. Divine Strategy Behind Human Fear • God sometimes uses dread to restrain evil (2 Chronicles 17:10). • The reversal fulfilled the promise to Abraham: “I will bless those who bless you… and in you all families of the earth will be blessed” (Genesis 12:3). • Psalm 105:14–15 shows God warning rulers “Do not touch My anointed,” paralleling Persian officials’ caution toward Mordecai and his people. Takeaways: Fear in God’s Hands • Human fear can become a shield for God’s people when He so chooses. • Leadership positions are ultimately subject to God’s sovereignty; He can sway them as easily by fear as by favor (Proverbs 21:1). • The episode showcases His faithfulness: what Haman meant for destruction, the Lord turned into deliverance, using even pagan officials to make it happen. |
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