The verse you've quoted, Esther Greek 9:31, doesn't exist in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible (which is the standard Hebrew text used for translations like the KJV, NIV, etc.). It originates from the Greek version of the Book of Esther, specifically from what are often referred to as the "Additions to Esther." These additions aren't considered canonical by many Jewish and Protestant denominations, but they are included in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) and are considered part of the biblical canon by Eastern Orthodox and some Catholic traditions.
Here's a breakdown of what that verse, in its context, likely implies:
"And Mordecai and Esther the queen appointed a fast for themselves privately...": This part aligns with the general theme of Esther and Mordecai using prayer and fasting to seek divine intervention. The "privately" element suggests a deep and personal act of devotion and supplication. They're seeking God's guidance and favor, likely in connection to the safety of the Jewish people.
"...even at that time also having formed their plan against their own health.": This is the crucial and potentially ambiguous part. "Formed their plan against their own health" could mean several things, considering the historical context:
Extreme Fasting: It might refer to a particularly rigorous and prolonged fast, pushing the limits of their physical endurance. This would signify the urgency and depth of their concern. They were willing to sacrifice their well-being for their people.
Self-Sacrifice: More broadly, it could symbolize their willingness to risk their lives in their efforts to protect the Jewish people. Esther's initial approach to the king without being summoned was, itself, a risk punishable by death. The fasting is symbolic of the overall self-sacrifice.
Emotional and Mental Toll: The pressure and stress of the situation could have been taking a severe toll on their mental and emotional health. The "plan" and the general situation were deeply stressful.
Acceptance of Death: It could imply they were prepared to die if their plan to save the Jewish people failed. They were accepting the possibility that their actions would lead to their own demise.
In essence, the verse highlights the dedication, selflessness, and the high stakes involved in Mordecai and Esther's efforts. They were willing to endure hardship and even risk their own well-being in their fight for the survival of their people. The specific "plan against their own health" can be interpreted in various ways, but the core message is about their profound commitment.
The verse you've quoted, Esther Greek 9:31, doesn't exist in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible (which is the standard Hebrew text used for translations like the KJV, NIV, etc.). It originates from the Greek version of the Book of Esther, specifically from what are often referred to as the "Additions to Esther." These additions aren't considered canonical by many Jewish and Protestant denominations, but they are included in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) and are considered part of the biblical canon by Eastern Orthodox and some Catholic traditions.
Here's a breakdown of what that verse, in its context, likely implies:
"And Mordecai and Esther the queen appointed a fast for themselves privately...": This part aligns with the general theme of Esther and Mordecai using prayer and fasting to seek divine intervention. The "privately" element suggests a deep and personal act of devotion and supplication. They're seeking God's guidance and favor, likely in connection to the safety of the Jewish people.
"...even at that time also having formed their plan against their own health.": This is the crucial and potentially ambiguous part. "Formed their plan against their own health" could mean several things, considering the historical context:
Extreme Fasting: It might refer to a particularly rigorous and prolonged fast, pushing the limits of their physical endurance. This would signify the urgency and depth of their concern. They were willing to sacrifice their well-being for their people.
Self-Sacrifice: More broadly, it could symbolize their willingness to risk their lives in their efforts to protect the Jewish people. Esther's initial approach to the king without being summoned was, itself, a risk punishable by death. The fasting is symbolic of the overall self-sacrifice.
Emotional and Mental Toll: The pressure and stress of the situation could have been taking a severe toll on their mental and emotional health. The "plan" and the general situation were deeply stressful.
Acceptance of Death: It could imply they were prepared to die if their plan to save the Jewish people failed. They were accepting the possibility that their actions would lead to their own demise.
In essence, the verse highlights the dedication, selflessness, and the high stakes involved in Mordecai and Esther's efforts. They were willing to endure hardship and even risk their own well-being in their fight for the survival of their people. The specific "plan against their own health" can be interpreted in various ways, but the core message is about their profound commitment.