Topical Bible: Citizens: Loyal: Mordecai

◄ Citizens: Loyal: Mordecai ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Mordecai, a central figure in the Book of Esther, is a prime example of loyalty and faithfulness, both to his people and to God. He is introduced as a Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). Mordecai is a descendant of Kish, a Benjamite, and is the cousin and adoptive father of Esther, who becomes queen.

Loyalty to His People:

Mordecai's loyalty to his people is evident throughout the narrative. When Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian court, plots to annihilate the Jews, Mordecai takes decisive action. He informs Esther of the impending danger, urging her to use her position to intercede with the king. Mordecai's words to Esther are poignant and reflect his deep commitment to his people: "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 4:14).

Loyalty to the King:

Mordecai's loyalty is not limited to his own people; he also demonstrates fidelity to King Xerxes. This is notably seen when Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king. He reports the conspiracy to Esther, who in turn informs the king, crediting Mordecai. This act of loyalty is recorded in the royal chronicles, which later plays a crucial role in Mordecai's rise to prominence (Esther 2:21-23).

Mordecai's Rise to Power:

Mordecai's loyalty and integrity eventually lead to his elevation within the Persian Empire. After Haman's downfall, the king bestows upon Mordecai Haman's estate and appoints him to a high position, second only to the king. Mordecai uses his influence to further the welfare of the Jewish people, securing their safety and prosperity (Esther 8:1-2, 15).

Legacy of Loyalty:

Mordecai's legacy is one of unwavering loyalty and faith. His actions not only save the Jewish people from destruction but also establish the festival of Purim, a time of celebration and remembrance for the deliverance of the Jews. The Book of Esther concludes with a tribute to Mordecai's greatness: "For Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and highly favored by his many kinsmen, seeking the good of his people and speaking peace to all his countrymen" (Esther 10:3).

Mordecai's account serves as an enduring testament to the virtues of loyalty, courage, and faithfulness, inspiring believers to stand firm in their convictions and to act with integrity in the face of adversity.

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Esther 2:21-23
In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hands on the king Ahasuerus.
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