Background and Context:
Esther, a Jewish woman living in Persia, becomes queen to King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) after a series of providential events. Her account is recounted in the Book of Esther, which is unique in the Bible for not explicitly mentioning God, yet His providence is evident throughout the narrative. Esther's distress arises from a decree orchestrated by Haman, an official in the king's court, to annihilate all Jews in the Persian Empire.

The Decree Against the Jews:
Haman, harboring a deep hatred for the Jewish people, especially Mordecai, Esther's cousin and guardian, manipulates King Xerxes into signing a decree to destroy, kill, and annihilate all Jews, young and old, women and children, in a single day. This decree is sealed with the king's signet ring, making it irrevocable (Esther 3:13-14).

Esther's Initial Reaction:
Upon learning of the decree, Mordecai mourns publicly, donning sackcloth and ashes, and wailing loudly in the city (Esther 4:1). Esther, initially unaware of the decree, is informed by her attendants and is deeply distressed. She sends clothes to Mordecai to replace his sackcloth, but he refuses them (Esther 4:4).

Mordecai's Plea and Esther's Dilemma:
Mordecai communicates with Esther through Hathach, one of the king's eunuchs, explaining the dire situation and urging her to plead with the king for her people (Esther 4:8). Esther faces a grave dilemma: approaching the king unsummoned could result in her death, as the law states that anyone who approaches the king without being called is subject to execution unless the king extends his golden scepter (Esther 4:11).

Esther's Decision and Fast:
Mordecai's poignant message to Esther underscores the gravity of the moment: "Do not imagine that because you are in the king’s palace you alone will escape the fate of all the Jews. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13-14).

Moved by Mordecai's words, Esther resolves to act, despite the risk to her own life. She instructs Mordecai to gather all the Jews in Susa to fast for three days and nights, and she and her maids will do the same. Esther declares her willingness to perish if necessary: "If I perish, I perish!" (Esther 4:16).

Significance:
Esther's distress and subsequent courage highlight themes of providence, faith, and the responsibility of God's people to act in times of crisis. Her willingness to risk her life for the salvation of her people exemplifies self-sacrifice and trust in divine intervention. Esther's account serves as a powerful reminder of the unseen hand of God working through individuals to fulfill His purposes, even in the most dire circumstances.