Background and Context:
Mordecai's plea to Esther is a pivotal moment in the Book of Esther, a narrative set during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. The Jewish people, living in exile, face annihilation due to a decree orchestrated by Haman, an influential royal official. Mordecai, a Jew and Esther's cousin and guardian, becomes aware of this plot and seeks Esther's intervention, as she is now queen.

Scriptural Account:
The account of Mordecai's plea is found in Esther 4. Upon learning of Haman's decree, Mordecai dons sackcloth and ashes, a traditional sign of mourning and distress, and goes to the king's gate, unable to enter due to his attire. Esther, informed of Mordecai's actions, sends a messenger, Hathach, to inquire about his distress.

Mordecai responds by explaining the dire situation and providing Esther with a copy of the edict. He urges her to go before the king to plead for her people. Esther initially hesitates, citing the law that anyone who approaches the king unsummoned risks death unless the king extends his golden scepter.

Mordecai's Persuasive Argument:
Mordecai's response to Esther is both a call to courage and a theological assertion of divine providence. He states, "Do not imagine that because you are in the king’s palace you alone will escape the fate of all the Jews. 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 house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13-14).

Mordecai's words highlight several key themes:

1. Divine Providence: Mordecai expresses confidence that deliverance for the Jews will come, suggesting a belief in God's sovereign plan. His statement implies that Esther's position as queen is not coincidental but part of a divine purpose.

2. Responsibility and Courage: Mordecai challenges Esther to recognize her unique position and the responsibility that comes with it. His plea is a call to action, urging her to use her influence for the salvation of her people.

3. Faith and Risk: Mordecai acknowledges the risk involved but emphasizes faith in God's deliverance. His words encourage Esther to trust in God's plan and act with courage.

Esther's Response:
Moved by Mordecai's plea, Esther resolves to act. She instructs Mordecai to gather all the Jews in Susa to fast for three days, stating, "I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish!" (Esther 4:16). Esther's response demonstrates her willingness to sacrifice her own safety for the sake of her people, embodying the themes of faith, courage, and selflessness.

Theological Implications:
Mordecai's plea to Esther is a profound moment that underscores the themes of divine providence, human responsibility, and the courage to act in faith. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing God's hand in the circumstances of life and the call to act justly and courageously in the face of adversity.