Esther 2:7

And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, because she did not have a father or mother. The young woman was lovely in form and appearance, and when her father and mother had died, Mordecai had taken her in as his own daughter.

Study Bible

And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle,

Mordecai was a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin who lived among the exiles in the Persian capital. Though he bore a name common in the Babylonian world, possibly connected to the Babylonian god Marduk, and Esther also had a Persian name, derived from the Persian word for “star” and possibly linked to the goddess Ishtar, their Jewish identity remained central to the events that followed. Hadassah, meaning “myrtle,” was Mordecai’s younger cousin, and his care for her reveals the strength of family responsibility among God’s people living far from their ancestral land.

2Ki 11:2-3 But Jehosheba daughter of King Joram, the sister of Ahaziah…
Exo 2:10 When the child had grown older, she brought him…

because she did not have a father or mother.

Esther’s orphaned condition made her especially dependent upon Mordecai’s protection and instruction. What might have appeared to be a position of weakness became part of God’s providential preparation for her future place in the Persian court. Her life shows that loss and vulnerability do not place anyone beyond the reach of God’s care or His purposes.

Psa 68:5 A father of the fatherless and a defender of widows…
Deu 10:18 He executes justice for the fatherless and widow,…
Jas 1:27 Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father…

The young woman was lovely in form and appearance,

Esther’s beauty brought her into the king’s search for a new queen, but her outward appearance was not the source of her lasting influence. In the crisis facing the Jewish people, she would display courage, wisdom, restraint, and willingness to risk her life for others. Her account accords with the truth that the Lord sees beyond outward appearance and works through a faithful heart.

Gen 29:17 Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel was shapely and beautiful.
1Sa 16:12 So Jesse sent for his youngest son and brought him in.…
1Sa 25:3 His name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail.…

and when her father and mother had died, Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter.

Mordecai assumed the responsibility of a father, providing Esther with a home, guidance, and protection. His compassion fulfilled the concern for the fatherless commanded throughout the Law and prepared Esther for the calling God had appointed for her. Even in exile, when the Lord’s name is not directly mentioned in the book, His preserving hand is evident through the faithful care of Mordecai and the rise of Esther.

Act 7:21 When he was set outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him…
Psa 68:6 God settles the lonely in families; He leads the prisoners…

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mordecai
A Jew from the tribe of Benjamin, living in Susa, who took in his cousin Esther as his own daughter after her parents died. He plays a crucial role in the account of Esther, guiding and advising her.

2. Hadassah/Esther
A Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Her Hebrew name is Hadassah, and she is known for her beauty and grace. She becomes queen and plays a pivotal role in saving her people.

3. Susa
The capital of the Persian Empire where the events of the Book of Esther take place. It is a significant location for the Jewish diaspora during this period.

4. Esther's Parents
Though not named, their death is a significant event that leads to Esther being raised by Mordecai, setting the stage for her future role as queen.

5. The Persian Empire
The ruling empire during the time of Esther, under which the Jewish people lived in exile. The empire's laws and customs form the backdrop of the account.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Orphanhood
Esther's account reminds us that God can use difficult circumstances, such as the loss of parents, for His greater purpose. He places people in our lives, like Mordecai, to guide and support us.

The Role of Family and Community
Mordecai's adoption of Esther highlights the importance of family and community support. We are called to care for those in need, reflecting God's love and provision.

Inner Beauty and Character
While Esther's physical beauty is noted, her account emphasizes the importance of inner beauty and character. As believers, we should cultivate a heart that seeks to honor God above all.

Courage and Faithfulness
Esther's journey from orphan to queen demonstrates courage and faithfulness. We are encouraged to trust God's plan and step out in faith, even when the future is uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mordecai's role in Esther's life reflect the biblical principle of caring for orphans and widows? (Consider James 1:27)

2. In what ways does Esther's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in challenging circumstances?

3. How can we apply the concept of inner beauty and godly character in our daily lives, as seen in Esther's example?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mordecai's faithfulness and guidance in Esther's life, and how can we apply them in our relationships?

5. How does Esther's account inspire us to act with courage and faith when faced with difficult decisions or situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ruth 2:11
Like Ruth, Esther is a young woman who shows loyalty and courage in a foreign land. Both accounts highlight God's providence and the importance of family loyalty.

Proverbs 31:30
This verse speaks to the value of inner beauty and godly character, which can be seen in Esther's life as she finds favor with those around her.

1 Samuel 16:7
God's focus on the heart rather than outward appearance is a theme that resonates with Esther's account, as her character and faith play a crucial role in her rise to queenship.