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Esther 2:7 (BSB)
And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, because she did not have a father or mother. The young woman was lovely in form and appearance, and when her father and mother had died, Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, because she did not have a father or mother. The young woman was lovely in form and appearance, and when her father and mother had died, Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter.” — Esther 2:7
In this moment, we see Mordecai stepping into a vital role as a protector and guardian for Esther, a young woman who has faced unimaginable loss. Picture this: Esther, full of beauty and promise, is suddenly left without her parents. It’s a heartbreaking scene, but instead of being alone, she finds a home in Mordecai’s heart. This verse highlights his love and commitment to her, showing that family can be chosen, not just given. It's a tender, poignant moment that reminds us of the power of relationships and support in tough times.
Traditionally, the book of Esther is attributed to Mordecai himself or another Jewish writer. Whoever it was, they wanted to ensure that the story of Esther and her bravery was remembered. By including this detail about Mordecai taking Esther in, the writer emphasizes the importance of family, loyalty, and love in times of crisis. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most significant parts of our stories come from the connections we nurture, especially when life gets tough.
This story takes place during the Persian Empire, around 500 BC, a time when the Jewish people were living in exile. They were navigating a foreign culture, facing discrimination and danger. Understanding this context helps you grasp the gravity of Esther’s situation. She wasn’t just a girl; she was a symbol of hope in a perilous time. The pressures of that society make Mordecai’s decision to adopt her even more poignant, as it shows the strength of familial bonds against a backdrop of uncertainty.
This verse speaks volumes about resilience and the power of connection. You might not have faced losing your parents, but we all know what it’s like to feel alone or out of place. Mordecai’s love for Esther reminds us that we can be a source of support for those who need it, just as others can step in for us. It’s a beautiful lesson about community and love that transcends time. In your life, look around—who might need your support? You could be their Mordecai.
Think about someone in your life who might be feeling isolated or going through a tough time. This week, reach out to them. You could offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or even just a compassionate message. Just like Mordecai stepped up for Esther, you can be a source of comfort and strength for someone else. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; even a small act of kindness can make all the difference.
This verse is a pivotal point in the unfolding story of Esther. Before this, the backdrop was filled with turmoil and upheaval as the Jewish people faced threats in Persia. Mordecai’s decision to raise Esther comes at a crucial time, setting the stage for her to eventually rise as a key figure in saving her people. As the chapter progresses, we see Esther’s journey from an orphan to a queen, and this moment lays the groundwork for her courage and influence. It’s like the beginning of an epic tale where the characters are being shaped by their experiences and relationships.
How can you be a source of support for someone in your life who might be feeling lost or alone, just like Mordecai was for Esther?
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