Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the relationship between Mordecai and Esther is a profound example of kindness, loyalty, and familial duty. Mordecai, a Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, is introduced in the Book of Esther as a man of integrity and wisdom. He is the cousin and adoptive father of Esther, who becomes queen to King Xerxes (Ahasuerus).Mordecai's kindness to Esther is evident from the outset. After the death of Esther's parents, Mordecai takes her in as his own daughter. The Scripture states, "Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died" (Esther 2:7). This act of adoption is a significant demonstration of kindness, as Mordecai assumes responsibility for Esther's well-being and upbringing, ensuring she is cared for and protected. As Esther is taken to the king's palace to become part of the royal harem, Mordecai's kindness continues to manifest through his concern for her welfare. He regularly checks on her, demonstrating a deep, abiding care. "Every day Mordecai walked back and forth in front of the courtyard of the harem to learn about Esther's welfare and what was happening to her" (Esther 2:11). This persistent vigilance underscores his commitment to her safety and happiness. Mordecai's kindness is further illustrated in his guidance and counsel to Esther. When a plot to annihilate the Jewish people is uncovered, Mordecai urges Esther to use her position as queen to intercede with the king. He communicates the gravity of the situation and encourages her to act courageously, saying, "And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). His words are not only a call to action but also an expression of faith in her ability to make a difference. Moreover, Mordecai's kindness extends beyond his relationship with Esther to the broader Jewish community. His refusal to bow to Haman, the king's advisor, is an act of loyalty to God and his people, which ultimately leads to the deliverance of the Jews from destruction. Mordecai's actions, driven by his steadfast faith and kindness, result in his elevation to a position of honor in the king's court, where he continues to work for the good of his people. The account of Mordecai and Esther is a testament to the power of kindness rooted in faith and familial love. Mordecai's unwavering support and guidance enable Esther to fulfill her role in God's plan for the salvation of the Jewish people, highlighting the profound impact of kindness in the face of adversity. Nave's Topical Index Esther 2:7And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter. Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning Esther and Mordecai and Haman; and How in the Reign of ... Esther's Venture Answer to Objections: Signal Instances of Prayer The Poor in Spirit are Enriched with a Kingdom Palestine under Pagan Kings. Letter Lxxix. To Salvina. Appeal to the Christian Women of the South The Bible On the Formation of the Character of Believers, and on Giving of ... They Shall be Called the Children of God Resources How should a Christian relate to non-Christian friends? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about forbearance? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between mercy and grace? | GotQuestions.org Kindness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Kindness: Centurion to his Servant Kindness: David to Mephibosheth Kindness: Elisha to the Woman Whose Son he Restored to Life Kindness: Evil-Merodach to Jehoiachin Kindness: General Scriptures Concerning Kindness: Jehoshabeath to Joash Kindness: Nebuchadrezzar to Jeremiah Kindness: Pharaoh's Daughter to Moses Kindness: The Jews to Mary and Martha Kindness: The Jews to the People Related Terms Loving-kindness (150 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) |
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