Esther 2:23
After the report had been investigated and verified, both officials were hanged on the gallows. And all this was recorded in the Book of the Chronicles in the presence of the king.
And when the report was investigated
This phrase highlights the diligence and thoroughness of the Persian court in matters of security and justice. The Hebrew root for "investigated" is "בָּקַר" (baqar), which means to search or examine. This reflects a culture that valued truth and justice, ensuring that accusations were substantiated before action was taken. In a spiritual sense, it reminds believers of the importance of discernment and seeking truth in all matters.

and found to be true
The phrase underscores the outcome of the investigation, emphasizing the integrity of the process. The Hebrew word for "true" is "אֱמֶת" (emet), which conveys not only factual accuracy but also faithfulness and reliability. This serves as a reminder of God's nature as the ultimate source of truth and the call for His followers to live in truth.

the two officials were hanged on the gallows
This phrase describes the execution of justice. The term "gallows" is translated from the Hebrew "עֵץ" (etz), which can mean tree or wood, indicating a wooden structure used for execution. Historically, this reflects the Persian practice of impalement or hanging as a form of capital punishment. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and betrayal, and the ultimate justice of God.

This was recorded in the Book of the Chronicles
The recording of events in the "Book of the Chronicles" signifies the importance of documentation and remembrance in the Persian Empire. The Hebrew word "סֵפֶר" (sefer) means book or scroll, indicating an official record. This practice ensured that significant events were preserved for posterity, highlighting the value of remembering God's providence and justice throughout history.

in the presence of the king
This phrase indicates that the recording was done with the king's knowledge and authority, underscoring the transparency and accountability in the administration. The presence of the king signifies the ultimate authority and oversight, reminding believers of God's sovereign rule over all earthly powers and His omnipresence in the affairs of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, the capital of Persia, who uncovers a plot against King Xerxes. His loyalty and wisdom are pivotal in the account.

2. Bigthana and Teresh
Two of the king's eunuchs who conspire to assassinate King Xerxes. Their plot is thwarted by Mordecai's intervention.

3. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)
The Persian king during the time of Esther. His reign is marked by significant events, including the elevation of Esther as queen.

4. The Gallows
A structure used for execution, symbolizing justice and the king's authority to punish treason.

5. The Book of the Chronicles
A record-keeping book where significant events and decisions are documented in the king's presence, ensuring accountability and historical record.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Loyalty and Integrity
Mordecai's loyalty to the king, despite being a foreigner, highlights the Christian call to integrity and faithfulness in all circumstances.

God's Sovereign Plan
Even in a foreign land, God uses Mordecai's actions to protect His people, reminding us that God is sovereign and works through our circumstances.

The Role of Justice
The execution of the conspirators underscores the biblical principle of justice, where wrongdoing is met with appropriate consequences.

The Power of Record-Keeping
The recording of events in the chronicles serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the lasting impact of our actions.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Mordecai's loyalty to King Xerxes reflect the biblical call to be faithful in our own roles and responsibilities?

2. In what ways does the thwarting of the assassination plot demonstrate God's providence and protection over His people?

3. How can the concept of justice, as seen in the execution of the conspirators, be applied to our understanding of God's justice today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the recording of events in the book of the chronicles about the importance of accountability in our lives?

5. How do the themes in Esther 2:23 connect with other biblical accounts of faithfulness and divine intervention, such as those of Joseph or Daniel?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 41
Joseph's interpretation of dreams and subsequent rise to power parallels Mordecai's rise due to his loyalty and wisdom.

Daniel 6
Daniel's faithfulness and the plot against him by jealous officials mirror Mordecai's situation and the plot against King Xerxes.

Proverbs 21:12
The righteous man's wisdom and the downfall of the wicked are themes that resonate with Mordecai's actions and the fate of the conspirators.
Convicted ConspiratorsF. Hastings Esther 2:23
Written, But not RememberedF. Hastings Esther 2:23
Conspiracy and FidelityW. Dinwiddle Esther 2:21-23
People
Abihail, Ahasuerus, Benjamin, Bigthan, Bigthana, Esther, Hadassah, Hegai, Hege, Jair, Jeconiah, Jehoiachin, Kish, Mordecai, Nebuchadnezzar, Shaashgaz, Shimei, Teresh, Vashti
Places
Babylon, Jerusalem, Media, Susa
Topics
TRUE, Annals, Book, Chronicles, Death, Discovered, Gallows, Hanged, Hanging, Inquisition, Investigated, King's, Matter, Officials, Plot, Presence, Recorded, Records, Sought, Tree, Written
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Esther 2:23

     5232   book
     5322   gallows
     5331   hanging
     5485   punishment, legal aspects
     7346   death penalty

Library
Adoption
'As many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.' John 1:12. Having spoken of the great points of faith and justification, we come next to adoption. The qualification of the persons is, As many as received him.' Receiving is put for believing, as is clear by the last words, to them that believe in his name.' The specification of the privilege is, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.' The Greek word for power, exousia, signifies
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Esther
The spirit of the book of Esther is anything but attractive. It is never quoted or referred to by Jesus or His apostles, and it is a satisfaction to think that in very early times, and even among Jewish scholars, its right to a place in the canon was hotly contested. Its aggressive fanaticism and fierce hatred of all that lay outside of Judaism were felt by the finer spirits to be false to the more generous instincts that lay at the heart of the Hebrew religion; but by virtue of its very intensity
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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