This verse, Esther 4:17, is a simple statement with significant implications:
"So Mordecai went his way..." This indicates that Mordecai is leaving Esther's presence after receiving her instructions. He's taking action.
"...and did according to all that Esther had commanded him." This is the crucial part. It means that Mordecai completely obeyed Esther's instructions.
To understand the full significance, consider the context:
The threat: A decree has been issued to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. Mordecai has learned of this and informed Esther.
Esther's risk: Esther, as queen, has a dangerous and potentially fatal task: to approach the king uninvited and plead for her people.
Esther's command (implied from the previous verses): Esther likely commanded Mordecai to do the following:
Gather all the Jews in Susa and fast for her for three days, without eating or drinking.
To continue praying for her success.
Likely to keep the situation and her plan secret until the opportune moment.
Therefore, Esther 4:17 means that Mordecai, recognizing the gravity of the situation and trusting Esther's judgment, diligently carried out all of her requests. His obedience demonstrates:
His faith in Esther: He trusts her plan, even though it is risky.
His commitment to his people: He is willing to do whatever it takes to save them.
His humility: Despite his position as an advisor, he submits to Esther's instructions.
His willingness to act: He is not passive in the face of danger; he takes practical steps while relying on prayer and fasting.
In essence, this verse signifies the beginning of Esther's and Mordecai's coordinated plan to save the Jewish people, marked by obedience, faith, and decisive action. It sets the stage for Esther's courageous appearance before the king.
This verse, Esther 4:17, is a simple statement with significant implications:
"So Mordecai went his way..." This indicates that Mordecai is leaving Esther's presence after receiving her instructions. He's taking action.
"...and did according to all that Esther had commanded him." This is the crucial part. It means that Mordecai completely obeyed Esther's instructions.
To understand the full significance, consider the context:
The threat: A decree has been issued to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. Mordecai has learned of this and informed Esther.
Esther's risk: Esther, as queen, has a dangerous and potentially fatal task: to approach the king uninvited and plead for her people.
Esther's command (implied from the previous verses): Esther likely commanded Mordecai to do the following:
Gather all the Jews in Susa and fast for her for three days, without eating or drinking.
To continue praying for her success.
Likely to keep the situation and her plan secret until the opportune moment.
Therefore, Esther 4:17 means that Mordecai, recognizing the gravity of the situation and trusting Esther's judgment, diligently carried out all of her requests. His obedience demonstrates:
His faith in Esther: He trusts her plan, even though it is risky.
His commitment to his people: He is willing to do whatever it takes to save them.
His humility: Despite his position as an advisor, he submits to Esther's instructions.
His willingness to act: He is not passive in the face of danger; he takes practical steps while relying on prayer and fasting.
In essence, this verse signifies the beginning of Esther's and Mordecai's coordinated plan to save the Jewish people, marked by obedience, faith, and decisive action. It sets the stage for Esther's courageous appearance before the king.
