Esther 2:5

Now there was at the citadel of Susa a Jewish man from the tribe of Benjamin named Mordecai son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish.

Study Bible

Now there was at the citadel of Susa
Susa, also known as Shushan, was one of the ancient capitals of the Persian Empire, located in modern-day Iran. It served as a winter residence for Persian kings. The citadel was a fortified area within the city, indicating its importance and strategic significance. The setting in Susa highlights the Jewish diaspora living under Persian rule after the Babylonian exile, as described in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah.

a Jewish man
This phrase identifies Mordecai as part of the Jewish community living in exile. The Jewish people were dispersed throughout the Persian Empire following the Babylonian captivity, which began in 586 BC. Despite being in a foreign land, Mordecai maintained his Jewish identity, which is central to the narrative of Esther and the preservation of the Jewish people.

from the tribe of Benjamin
The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its warriors and its close association with the tribe of Judah. King Saul, Israel's first king, was also from the tribe of Benjamin, establishing a historical connection. This tribal affiliation emphasizes Mordecai's heritage and links him to the broader history of Israel.

named Mordecai
Mordecai's name is of Babylonian origin, possibly derived from the god Marduk, reflecting the cultural assimilation that occurred during the exile. Despite this, Mordecai's actions throughout the Book of Esther demonstrate his faithfulness to God and his people. His role as a protector and advisor to Esther is pivotal in the deliverance of the Jewish people.

son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish
This genealogy connects Mordecai to Kish, the father of King Saul, reinforcing his Benjaminite lineage. The mention of Shimei may recall the Shimei who cursed David (2 Samuel 16:5-13), though the connection is not explicit. The genealogy serves to establish Mordecai's noble heritage and his rightful place within the Jewish community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mordecai
A Jew residing in Susa, of the tribe of Benjamin. He plays a crucial role in the account of Esther, acting as her guardian and advisor. His lineage connects him to significant historical figures in Israel's history.

2. Jair
Mordecai's father, mentioned to establish Mordecai's genealogy and Jewish heritage.

3. Shimei
Mordecai's grandfather, further establishing the family line within the tribe of Benjamin.

4. Kish
Mordecai's great-grandfather, also the father of King Saul, Israel's first king. This connection highlights Mordecai's noble lineage.

5. Susa
The capital of the Persian Empire, where the events of the Book of Esther take place. It serves as the backdrop for the unfolding drama of God's providence.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
Mordecai's presence in Susa and his lineage remind us that God orchestrates history and places people in specific roles for His purposes.

Heritage and Identity
Understanding our spiritual heritage can empower us to fulfill God's calling in our lives, just as Mordecai's identity as a Jew of Benjamin influenced his actions.

Courage and Faithfulness
Mordecai's life encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and convictions, trusting in God's plan even in foreign or hostile environments.

Providence and Protection
The account of Mordecai and Esther illustrates God's providential care and protection over His people, encouraging us to trust in His unseen hand.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mordecai's lineage as a descendant of Kish and the tribe of Benjamin influence his role in the account of Esther?

2. In what ways does the setting of Susa contribute to the unfolding of God's plan in the Book of Esther?

3. How can understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ empower us to live out our faith today?

4. What are some modern-day situations where believers might need to exhibit the courage and faithfulness demonstrated by Mordecai?

5. How can we recognize and trust in God's providence in our own lives, especially when facing challenges or uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9
The genealogy of Mordecai connects back to Kish, the father of King Saul, providing a historical and familial context that ties the account of Esther to the broader account of Israel's monarchy.

Genesis 49:27
The tribe of Benjamin is described as a warrior tribe, which can be seen in Mordecai's courage and strategic thinking throughout the Book of Esther.

Romans 8:28
The account of Mordecai and Esther exemplifies how God works all things for the good of those who love Him, as seen in the deliverance of the Jewish people.