Esther 4:8

Esther 4:8 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Mordecai also gave Hathach a copy of the written decree issued in Susa for the destruction of the Jews, to show and explain to Esther, urging her to approach the king, implore his favor, and plead before him for her people.

King James Version KJV

Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to shew it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him for her people.

American Standard Version ASV

Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given out in Shushan to destroy them, to show it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him, for her people.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And he gave him the copy of the order which had been given out in Shushan for their destruction, ordering him to let Esther see it, and to make it clear to her; and to say to her that she was to go in to the king, requesting his mercy, and making prayer for her people.

Free Bible Version FBV

Mordecai also gave him a copy of the decree that had been issued in Susa for their destruction to show Esther and explain it to her, and asked him to instruct her to go to the king and appeal for mercy and plead before him for her people.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Also he gaue him the copy of the writing and commission that was giuen at Shushan, to destroy them, that he might shewe it vnto Ester and declare it vnto her, and to charge her that she should goe in to the King, and make petition and supplication before him for her people.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and the copy of the writing of the law that had been given in Shushan to destroy them he hath given to him, to shew Esther, and to declare [it] to her, and to lay a charge on her to go in unto the king, to make supplication to him, and to seek from before him, for her people.

World English Bible WEB

He also gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given out in Susa to destroy them, to show it to Esther, and to declare it to her, and to urge her to go in to the king to make supplication to him, and to make request before him for her people.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to show it to Esther, and to declare it to her, and to charge her that she should go in to the king, to make supplication to him, and to make request before him for her people.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

He gave him also a copy of the edict which was hanging up in Susan, that he should shew it to the queen, and admonish her to go in to the king, and to entreat him for her people.

Translation for Translators T4T

Mordecai also gave to Hathach a copy of the decree that had been read in Susa, in which it was stated that all the Jews must be killed. He told Hathach to show the copy to Esther. He told Hathach to explain to Esther what ◄it meant/would happen►. Then he told him to urge her to go to the king and request the king to act mercifully to her people.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Esther 4:8

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Esther 4:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וְ/אֶת פַּתְשֶׁ֣גֶן כְּתָֽב הַ֠/דָּת אֲשֶׁר נִתַּ֨ן בְּ/שׁוּשָׁ֤ן לְ/הַשְׁמִידָ/ם֙ נָ֣תַן ל֔/וֹ לְ/הַרְא֥וֹת אֶת אֶסְתֵּ֖ר וּ/לְ/הַגִּ֣יד לָ֑/הּ וּ/לְ/צַוּ֣וֹת עָלֶ֗י/הָ לָ/ב֨וֹא אֶל הַ/מֶּ֧לֶךְ לְ/הִֽתְחַנֶּן ל֛/וֹ וּ/לְ/בַקֵּ֥שׁ מִ/לְּ/פָנָ֖י/ו עַל עַמָּֽ/הּ

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM

פַּתְשֶׁ֣גֶן parshegen H6572 copy N-ms

כְּתָֽב kâthâb H3791 writing N-ms

הַ֠/דָּת dâth H1881 law Art | N-fs

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

נִתַּ֨ן nâthan H5414 to give V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

בְּ/שׁוּשָׁ֤ן Shûwshan H7800 Susa Prep | N-proper

לְ/הַשְׁמִידָ/ם֙ shâmad H8045 to destroy Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff

נָ֣תַן nâthan H5414 to give V-Qal-Perf-3ms

ל֔/וֹ Prep | Suff

לְ/הַרְא֥וֹת râʼâh H7200 Provider Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

אֶסְתֵּ֖ר ʼEçtêr H635 Esther N-proper

וּ/לְ/הַגִּ֣יד nâgad H5046 to tell Conj | Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

לָ֑/הּ Prep | Suff

וּ/לְ/צַוּ֣וֹת tsâvâh H6680 to command Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

עָלֶ֗י/הָ ʻal H5921 upon Prep | Suff

לָ/ב֨וֹא bôwʼ H935 Lebo Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/מֶּ֧לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

לְ/הִֽתְחַנֶּן chânan H2603 be gracious Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a

ל֛/וֹ Prep | Suff

וּ/לְ/בַקֵּ֥שׁ bâqash H1245 to seek Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

מִ/לְּ/פָנָ֖י/ו pânîym H6440 face Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

עַמָּֽ/הּ ʻam H5971 Amaw N-ms | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Esther 4:8

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

פַּתְשֶׁ֣גֶן parshegen H6572 "copy" N-ms

This Hebrew word means a copy or transcript, often referring to a written document. It appears in the Bible as a translation of a written record. The term is used to describe an exact replica.

Definition: copy Another spelling of pat.she.gen (פַּתְשֶׁ֫גֶן "copy" H6572B)

Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: copy. See also: Ezra 7:11; Esther 4:8; Esther 8:13.

כְּתָֽב kâthâb H3791 "writing" N-ms

This Hebrew word refers to something written, like a book or document, and is used in the Bible to describe important records or scriptures. It appears in the book of Ezra and Nehemiah to describe official documents. In English, it is often translated as 'register' or 'scripture'.

Definition: 1) a writing, document, edict 1a) register, enrolment, roll 1b) mode of writing, character, letter 1c) letter, document, a writing 1d) a written edict 1d1) of royal enactment 1d2) of divine authority Aramaic equivalent: ke.tav (כְּתָב "inscription" H3792)

Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: register, scripture, writing. See also: 1 Chronicles 28:19; Esther 3:14; Daniel 10:21.

הַ֠/דָּת dâth H1881 "law" Art | N-fs

This word means a law or decree, like a royal command, as seen in Esther and Daniel. It can also refer to a custom or tradition, like the laws given to Moses. The word is used to describe the rules and regulations of a kingdom or society.

Definition: 1) decree, law, edict, regulation, usage 1a) decree, edict, commission 1b) law, rule Aramaic equivalent: dat (דָּת "law" H1882)

Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: commandment, commission, decree, law, manner. See also: Deuteronomy 33:2; Esther 3:15; Esther 9:14.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

נִתַּ֨ן nâthan H5414 "to give" V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.

Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon

Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.

בְּ/שׁוּשָׁ֤ן Shûwshan H7800 "Susa" Prep | N-proper

Shushan refers to a place in Persia where the Persian kings lived during winter, also meaning lily. It is mentioned in the Bible as the location of important events. The city was located on the river Ulai.

Definition: Shushan or Susa = "lily" the winter residence of the Persian kings; located on the river Ulai or Choaspes Also named: shu.shan.khi (שׁוּשַׁנְכָיֵא "Susa" H7801)

Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: Shushan. See also: Nehemiah 1:1; Esther 8:14; Daniel 8:2.

לְ/הַשְׁמִידָ/ם֙ shâmad H8045 "to destroy" Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff

The Hebrew word shâmad means to destroy or desolate something, used to describe annihilation or devastation. It is used in the Bible to describe the destruction of cities or nations, such as in the book of Isaiah.

Definition: 1) to destroy, exterminate, be destroyed, be exterminated 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be annihilated, be exterminated 1a2) to be destroyed, be devastated 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to annihilate, exterminate 1b2) to destroy Aramaic equivalent: she.mad (שְׁמַד "to destroy" H8046)

Usage: Occurs in 86 OT verses. KJV: destory(-uction), bring to nought, overthrow, perish, pluck down, [idiom] utterly. See also: Genesis 34:30; 2 Samuel 22:38; Psalms 37:38.

נָ֣תַן nâthan H5414 "to give" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

ל֔/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

לְ/הַרְא֥וֹת râʼâh H7200 "Provider" Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.

Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after

Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

אֶסְתֵּ֖ר ʼEçtêr H635 "Esther" N-proper

Esther was a brave Jewish woman who became queen of Persia, as told in the book of Esther. She was adopted by her cousin Mordecai and later helped save the Jewish people from persecution.

Definition: A woman living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Est.2.7; daughter of: Abihail (H0032K); also called Hadassah at Est.2.7; Also named: ha.das.sah (הֲדַסָּה "Hadassah" H1919) § Esther = "star" the queen of Persia, heroine of the book of Esther-daughter of Abihail, cousin and adopted daughter of Mordecai, of the tribe of Benjamin, made queen by king Ahasuerus to replace divorced queen, Vashti.

Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: Esther. See also: Esther 2:7; Esther 5:4; Esther 9:32.

וּ/לְ/הַגִּ֣יד nâgad H5046 "to tell" Conj | Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a

To tell or declare something openly, as in Genesis 3:11 where God asks Adam to tell the truth. It means to stand boldly and announce something to someone present. In Exodus 32:27, Moses tells the Levites to declare their actions to the people.

Definition: 1) to be conspicuous, tell, make known 1a) (Hiphil) to tell, declare 1a1) to tell, announce, report 1a2) to declare, make known, expound 1a3) to inform of 1a4) to publish, declare, proclaim 1a5) to avow, acknowledge, confess 1a5a) messenger (participle) 1b) (Hophal) to be told, be announced, be reported

Usage: Occurs in 344 OT verses. KJV: bewray, [idiom] certainly, certify, declare(-ing), denounce, expound, [idiom] fully, messenger, plainly, profess, rehearse, report, shew (forth), speak, [idiom] surely, tell, utter. See also: Genesis 3:11; 1 Samuel 14:33; 2 Kings 9:15.

לָ֑/הּ "" Prep | Suff

וּ/לְ/צַוּ֣וֹת tsâvâh H6680 "to command" Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

To command or give orders, as seen in the Bible when God gives charge to his people. It can also mean to appoint or ordain someone for a task. This word is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order 1a)(Piel) 1a1) to lay charge upon 1a2) to give charge to, give command to 1a3) to give charge unto 1a4) to give charge over, appoint 1a5) to give charge, command 1a6) to charge, command 1a7) to charge, commission 1a8) to command, appoint, ordain (of divine act) 1b) (Pual) to be commanded

Usage: Occurs in 475 OT verses. KJV: appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 10:13; Deuteronomy 12:11.

עָלֶ֗י/הָ ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

לָ/ב֨וֹא bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

הַ/מֶּ֧לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

לְ/הִֽתְחַנֶּן chânan H2603 "be gracious" Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a

This Hebrew word means to show kindness or favor, often by bending or stooping to help someone in need, as seen in the actions of God towards his people.

Definition: 1) to be gracious, show favour, pity 1a) (Qal) to show favour, be gracious 1b) (Niphal) to be pitied 1c) (Piel) to make gracious, make favourable, be gracious 1d) (Poel) to direct favour to, have mercy on 1e) (Hophal) to be shown favour, be shown consideration 1f) (Hithpael) to seek favour, implore favour

Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: beseech, [idiom] fair, (be, find, shew) favour(-able), be (deal, give, grant (gracious(-ly), intreat, (be) merciful, have (shew) mercy (on, upon), have pity upon, pray, make supplication, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 33:5; Psalms 37:21; Psalms 4:2.

ל֛/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

וּ/לְ/בַקֵּ֥שׁ bâqash H1245 "to seek" Conj | Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

This Hebrew verb means to seek or search for something. In Psalm 105:4, it's used to encourage seeking God's face. It's also used in 1 Samuel 28:8 where Saul seeks a medium.

Definition: 1) to seek, require, desire, exact, request 1a) (Piel) 1a1) to seek to find 1a2) to seek to secure 1a3) to seek the face 1a4) to desire, demand 1a5) to require, exact 1a6) to ask, request 1b) (Pual) to be sought

Usage: Occurs in 215 OT verses. KJV: ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for). See also: Genesis 31:39; Esther 7:7; Psalms 4:3.

מִ/לְּ/פָנָ֖י/ו pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

עַמָּֽ/הּ ʻam H5971 "Amaw" N-ms | Suff

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

Study Notes — Esther 4:8

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Esther 4:8 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Esther 4:8
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Esther 4:8
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Esther 4:8
Trapp's Commentary on Esther 4:8
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Esther 4:8
Cambridge Bible on Esther 4:8
Whedon's Commentary on Esther 4:8
Sermons on Esther 4:8

Context — Mordecai Appeals to Esther

6So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the city square in front of the king’s gate, 7and Mordecai told him all that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money that Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury in order to destroy the Jews.

8Mordecai also gave Hathach a copy of the written decree issued in Susa for the destruction of the Jews, to show and explain to Esther, urging her to approach the king, implore his favor, and plead before him for her people.

9So Hathach went back and relayed Mordecai’s response to Esther. 10Then Esther spoke to Hathach and instructed him to tell Mordecai,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Ecclesiastes 10:4	If the ruler’s temper flares against you, do not abandon your post, for calmness lays great offenses to rest.
2	Job 9:15	For even if I were right, I could not answer. I could only beg my Judge for mercy.
3	1 Timothy 6:13	I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who made the good confession in His testimony before Pontius Pilate:
4	Esther 2:20	Esther still had not revealed her lineage or her people, just as Mordecai had instructed. She obeyed Mordecai’s command, as she had done under his care.
5	Esther 3:14–15	A copy of the text of the edict was to be issued in every province and published to all the people, so that they would be ready on that day. The couriers left, spurred on by the king’s command, and the edict was issued in the citadel of Susa. Then the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa was in confusion.
6	Proverbs 16:14–15	The wrath of a king is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it. When a king’s face brightens, there is life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
7	Esther 7:3–4	Queen Esther replied, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition, and the lives of my people as my request. For my people and I have been sold out to destruction, death, and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as menservants and maidservants, I would have remained silent, because no such distress would justify burdening the king.”
8	Nehemiah 2:3–5	and replied to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should I not be sad when the city where my fathers are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” “What is your request?” replied the king. So I prayed to the God of heaven and answered the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city where my fathers are buried, so that I may rebuild it.”
9	Proverbs 21:1	The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases.
10	Acts 12:20	Now Herod was in a furious dispute with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they convened before him. Having secured the support of Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their region depended on the king’s country for food.

Esther 4:8 Summary

In Esther 4:8, Mordecai gives Hathach a copy of the decree to show Esther, so she can understand the danger her people are in and ask the king for help. This shows that Mordecai trusts God and believes Esther can make a difference, just like we see in Proverbs 21:1 that God can change the heart of a king. Mordecai's actions encourage us to take bold steps in faith, trusting God to work through us, as seen in Philippians 4:13. By trusting God and taking action, we can make a positive impact in the world, just like Esther did when she approached the king in Esther 5:1-8.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Mordecai give Hathach a copy of the written decree?

Mordecai gave Hathach a copy of the decree to show and explain to Esther, so she could understand the gravity of the situation and intercede on behalf of her people, as seen in Esther 4:8. This act of Mordecai's was an attempt to rally Esther to action, much like the prophet Isaiah called God's people to action in Isaiah 58:1.

What was Mordecai's goal in urging Esther to approach the king?

Mordecai's goal was for Esther to implore the king's favor and plead for her people, essentially asking the king to revoke or mitigate the decree, as Esther would later do in Esther 7:3. This was a bold move, but Mordecai trusted that God was at work, even in the midst of persecution, as stated in Romans 8:28.

How does this verse demonstrate Mordecai's faith in God?

Mordecai's actions demonstrate his faith in God's sovereignty and providence, as he trusts that Esther's intervention can change the course of events, much like the trust exhibited by the apostle Paul in Philippians 4:13. By urging Esther to act, Mordecai shows that he believes God can work through her to deliver their people.

What can we learn from Mordecai's example in this verse?

We can learn the importance of taking bold action in faith, even in the face of uncertainty or danger, as seen in Hebrews 11:32-34. Mordecai's example encourages us to trust God and take steps to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable, just as the prophet Daniel did in Daniel 6:10.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can take bold action in faith, like Mordecai, to stand up for what is right in my own life?
How can I trust God's sovereignty and providence, even when faced with difficult or uncertain circumstances?
What are some ways I can use my own position or influence to help others, just as Esther used her position to help her people?
How can I balance faith and action, trusting God to work while also taking concrete steps to address challenges or injustices?

Gill's Exposition on Esther 4:8

Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them,.... Which had now been published in the city; by which means Mordecai had had a sight of it, and had

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Esther 4:8

Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to shew it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Esther 4:8

To charge her; not only in his own name, to whom she manifested a singular respect, though his relation to her was yet unknown, but also in the name of the great God.

Trapp's Commentary on Esther 4:8

Esther 4:8 Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to shew [it] unto Esther, and to declare [it] unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him for her people.Ver. 8. Also he gave him the copy of the writing] That she might see it, and rest assured that it was even so, and no otherwise; and that therefore now or never she must bestir herself for the labouring Church. That was given at Shushan] Which if ever it were full of judgment, and white as a lily (according to the name), is now stained with blood of innocents; if ever righteousness did lodge in it, yet now murderers, as Isaiah 1:21. To show it unto Esther] That her eye might affect her heart, Lamentations 3:51, and her heart set all awork for her people; that is, herself, according to that, "Physician, heal thyself"; that is, thine own countrymen, Luke 4:23. And to declare it unto her] In the cause, viz. his refusing to bow to Haman against his conscience (whereof it no whit repented him); and in the several circumstances laid forth in the liveliest colours, for her thorough information. And to charge her that she should go in unto the king] Hoc perquam durum est, sed ita lex scripta est, This was extremely hard, but so the law was written, saith the civilian. This Mordecai knew would hardly be done; he, therefore, makes use of his ancient authority, and sets it on with greatest earnestness. So St Paul, "I charge you by the Lord," 1 Thessalonians 5:27. And, again, "I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ," &c., 2 Timothy 4:1. So St Austin to his hearers, Per tremendum Dei iudicium vos adiuro, I require and charge you by that dreadful day of judgment, when that doom’ s day book shall be opened, &c. It is a weakness to be hot in a cold matter, but it is a wickedness to be cold in a hot matter. He that is earnest in good, though he may carry some things indiscreetly, yet is he far better than a time server, and a cold friend to the truth; like as in falling forward is nothing so much danger as in falling backward. Eli was to blame with his - Do no more so, my sons. And so was Jehoshaphat with his - Let not the king say so. And the people in Ahab’ s time, who, when they were pressed to express whom they were for, God or Baal? they answered not a word, 1 Kings 18:21. And yet how many such cold friends hath the truth today! lukewarm Laodiceans, neuter passive Christians! &c. When Callidus once declared against Gallus with a faint and languishing voice, Oh, saith Cicero, Tu nisi fingeres, sic ageres? Wouldest thou plead on that manner if thou wert in good earnest?

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Esther 4:8

Verse 8. That she should go in unto the king] The Greek adds, "Remember the time of your low estate, and in what manner you have been nourished, and carried in my arms; and that Haman, who is next to the king, has got a decree for our destruction. Pray, therefore, to the Lord, and plead with the king, that we may be delivered from death." But there is not a word of this either in the Hebrew, Syriac, or Vulgate.

Cambridge Bible on Esther 4:8

8. to make request before him, for her people] See Esther 2:10. It was now necessary for Esther to declare her nationality. It was only by identifying herself with the imperilled nation that their deliverance could be hoped for.

Whedon's Commentary on Esther 4:8

8. Charge her… to make supplication — A perilous undertaking to urge upon her. But Mordecai’s faith already began to discern a divine reason for her elevation in the kingdom at that time. See Esther 4:14.

Sermons on Esther 4:8

	Sermon	Description
	Jap-08 God Requires the Past by Art Katz	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and confessing our sins and the sins of our ancestors. He specifically mentions the Jewish people and their
	(Titus - Part 21): The Second Coming of Christ by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a balanced Christian life. He explains that there are three dimensions to consider: our relationship with ourselves,
	Timothy, I #4 Ch. 5-6 by Chuck Missler	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of pursuing wealth and material possessions. He emphasizes that those who strive to be rich often fall into temptation and harmfu
	Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 7 of 10 by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a single-minded focus on God and His calling. He urges the listeners not to settle for less than what God intended
	Fren-05 Questions Et Rponses (Questions and Answers) by Art Katz	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the question of how to approach being part of an evangelical assembly that rejects the principles discussed in the conference. He emphasizes t
	Practicing Honour by Thaddeus Barnum	Thaddeus Barnum emphasizes the significance of practicing honor in our lives, urging the congregation to pray for the character of honor to be built within them. He discusses how h
	Christian Revolution by Winkie Pratney	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Daniel and the lions' den as an example of serving the Lord and facing challenges. He emphasizes the importance of unity in a na