Mordecai, a central figure in the Book of Esther, is a Jewish man of the tribe of Benjamin who resides in the Persian city of Susa. He is most notably recognized as the cousin and guardian of Esther, who becomes queen to King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). Mordecai's loyalty to the king and his people is a significant theme in the narrative, particularly highlighted by an episode of unrewarded loyalty that sets the stage for later events in the account.

The Plot Against the King

In Esther 2:21-23, Mordecai uncovers a conspiracy against King Xerxes. Two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, who guarded the entrance, become angry and conspire to assassinate the king. Mordecai learns of the plot and informs Queen Esther, who in turn reports it to the king, crediting Mordecai with the discovery. The matter is investigated, found to be true, and the conspirators are hanged on a gallows. This act of loyalty is recorded in the royal chronicles, yet Mordecai receives no immediate reward or recognition for his service.

The Delay of Recognition

The lack of immediate reward for Mordecai's loyalty is a pivotal element in the unfolding drama of the Book of Esther. This delay in recognition is not due to oversight but serves a greater purpose in the divine orchestration of events. Mordecai's unrewarded loyalty becomes a crucial factor later in the narrative, particularly in the context of Haman's rise to power and his plot to annihilate the Jews.

Haman's Plot and Mordecai's Defiance

In Esther 3, Haman, an Agagite elevated to a position of high authority by King Xerxes, becomes enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him. Mordecai's steadfastness is rooted in his Jewish faith and identity, which prohibits him from bowing to anyone but God. Haman's wrath leads him to devise a plan to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom, casting lots (Purim) to determine the date of their annihilation.

The King's Sleepless Night

The turning point comes in Esther 6, when King Xerxes, unable to sleep, orders the book of chronicles to be read to him. It is then that the account of Mordecai's loyalty and his role in saving the king from assassination is brought to light. The king, realizing that Mordecai has not been honored, asks, "What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?" (Esther 6:3). Upon learning that nothing has been done, the king seeks to rectify this oversight.

Divine Providence and Reversal

The timing of this revelation is critical, as it occurs just as Haman is preparing to request Mordecai's execution. Instead, the king commands Haman to honor Mordecai by leading him through the city streets in royal apparel, proclaiming, "This is what is done for the man whom the king desires to honor" (Esther 6:11). This public recognition not only elevates Mordecai but also marks the beginning of Haman's downfall.

Significance in the Narrative

Mordecai's unrewarded loyalty underscores the theme of divine providence and the reversal of fortunes that permeates the Book of Esther. His initial lack of recognition serves to highlight the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events for the deliverance of His people. Mordecai's faithfulness, even when unrewarded, ultimately leads to the salvation of the Jewish people and the establishment of the Feast of Purim, commemorating their deliverance.

Mordecai's account is a testament to the belief that God honors faithfulness and loyalty, even when human recognition is delayed. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his people exemplifies the virtues of courage and integrity, serving as an enduring example for believers.