New International VersionDay after day they spoke to him but he refused to comply. Therefore they told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew.
New Living TranslationThey spoke to him day after day, but still he refused to comply with the order. So they spoke to Haman about this to see if he would tolerate Mordecai’s conduct, since Mordecai had told them he was a Jew.
English Standard VersionAnd when they spoke to him day after day and he would not listen to them, they told Haman, in order to see whether Mordecai’s words would stand, for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Berean Standard BibleDay after day they warned him, but he would not comply. So they reported it to Haman to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated, since he had told them he was a Jew.
King James BibleNow it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
New King James VersionNow it happened, when they spoke to him daily and he would not listen to them, that they told it to Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s words would stand; for Mordecai had told them that he was a Jew.
New American Standard BibleNow it was when they had spoken daily to him and he would not listen to them, that they told Haman to see whether Mordecai’s reason would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
NASB 1995Now it was when they had spoken daily to him and he would not listen to them, that they told Haman to see whether Mordecai’s reason would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
NASB 1977Now it was when they had spoken daily to him and he would not listen to them, that they told Haman to see whether Mordecai’s reason would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Legacy Standard BibleNow it happened when they had spoken daily to him and he would not listen to them, that they told Haman to see whether Mordecai’s words would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Amplified BibleNow it happened when they had spoken to him day after day and he would not listen to them, that they told Haman to see whether Mordecai’s reason [for his behavior] would stand [as valid]; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Christian Standard BibleWhen they had warned him day after day and he still would not listen to them, they told Haman in order to see if Mordecai’s actions would be tolerated, since he had told them he was a Jew.
Holman Christian Standard BibleWhen they had warned him day after day and he still would not listen to them, they told Haman to see if Mordecai’s actions would be tolerated, since he had told them he was a Jew.
American Standard VersionNow it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Contemporary English Versionhe said, "Because I am a Jew." They spoke to him for several days about kneeling down, but he still refused to obey. Finally, they reported this to Haman, to find out if he would let Mordecai get away with it.
English Revised VersionNow it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationAlthough they asked him day after day, he paid no attention to them. So they informed Haman to see if Mordecai's actions would be tolerated, since Mordecai had told them that he was a Jew.
Good News Translationday after day they urged him to give in, but he would not listen to them. "I am a Jew," he explained, "and I cannot bow to Haman." So they told Haman about this, wondering if he would tolerate Mordecai's conduct.
International Standard VersionThey asked him this day after day, and he would not listen to them, so they told Haman to see whether or not Mordecai would get away with his disobedience, since he also had told them that he was Jewish.
NET BibleAnd after they had spoken to him day after day without his paying any attention to them, they informed Haman to see whether this attitude on Mordecai's part would be permitted. Furthermore, he had disclosed to them that he was a Jew.
New Heart English BibleNow it came to pass, when they spoke daily to him, and he did not listen to them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's reason would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Webster's Bible TranslationNow it came to pass, when they spoke daily to him, and he hearkened not to them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleDay after day they warned him, but he would not comply. So they reported it to Haman to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated, since he had told them he was a Jew.
World English BibleNow it came to pass, when they spoke daily to him, and he didn’t listen to them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s reason would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd it comes to pass, in their speaking to him, day by day, and he has not listened to them, that they declare [it] to Haman, to see whether the words of Mordecai stand, for he has declared to them that he [is] a Jew.
Young's Literal Translation And it cometh to pass, in their speaking unto him, day by day, and he hath not hearkened unto them, that they declare it to Haman, to see whether the words of Mordecai do stand, for he hath declared to them that he is a Jew.
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd it will be in their saying to him day and day, and he will not hear to them, and they will announce to Haman to see whether the words of Mordecai will stand: for he announced to them that he was a Jew. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd when they were saying this often, and he would not hearken to them; they told Aman, desirous to know whether he would continue in his resolution: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Catholic Public Domain VersionAnd when they were saying this frequently, and he would not listen to them, they reported it to Haman, desiring to know whether he would continue in his resolution, for he had told them that he was a Jew.
New American Bible
When they had reminded him day after day and he would not listen to them, they informed Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s explanation would prevail, since he had told them that he was a Jew.
New Revised Standard Version
When they spoke to him day after day and he would not listen to them, they told Haman, in order to see whether Mordecai’s words would avail; for he had told them that he was a Jew.Translations from Aramaic Lamsa Bible
Now it came to pass when they spoke daily to him and he would not listen to them, they told Haman, to know whether Mordecai's words were the truth; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And as they were speaking every day and he was not listening to them, they told Haman that they would know if the words of Murdacai were true, because he had told them that he was a Jew.OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917
Now it came to pass, when they spoke daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's words would stand; for he had told them that he was a Jew.
Brenton Septuagint Translation
Thus they spoke daily to him, but he hearkened not unto them; so they represented to Aman that Mardochaeus resisted the commands of the king: and Mardochaeus had shewn to them that he was a Jew.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Haman Plots Against the Jews… 3Then the royal servants at the king’s gate asked Mordecai, “Why do you disobey the command of the king?” 4Dayafter daythey warnedhim,but he would notcomply.So they reported itto Hamanto seewhether Mordecai’sbehaviorwould be tolerated,sincehe had toldthemhewas a Jew.5When Haman saw that Mordecai would not bow down or pay him homage, he was filled with rage.…
Cross References Daniel 3:16-18Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. / If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king. / But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.”
Daniel 6:10-13Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. / Then these men went as a group and found Daniel petitioning and imploring his God. / So they approached the king and asked about his royal decree: “Did you not sign a decree that for thirty days any man who petitions any god or man except you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions?” The king replied, “According to the law of the Medes and Persians the order stands, and it cannot be repealed.” ...
Acts 5:29But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men.
Acts 4:19-20But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. / For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
Exodus 1:17The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had instructed; they let the boys live.
Exodus 5:2But Pharaoh replied, “Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.”
1 Samuel 15:24Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have transgressed the LORD’s commandment and your instructions, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.
1 Samuel 17:26David asked the men who were standing with him, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Just who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?”
1 Kings 21:25(Surely there was never one like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the sight of the LORD, incited by his wife Jezebel.
Nehemiah 6:11But I replied, “Should a man like me run away? Should one like me go into the temple to save his own life? I will not go!”
Matthew 10:28Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Matthew 10:32-33Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven. / But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father in heaven.
Romans 12:2Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Galatians 1:10Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Philippians 1:28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a clear sign of their destruction but of your salvation, and it is from God.
Treasury of Scripture Now it came to pass, when they spoke daily to him, and he listened not to them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew. when they spake. Genesis 39:10 And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her,or to be with her. that they told. Daniel 3:8,9 Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews… Daniel 6:13 Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, whichis of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day. he had told. Ezra 1:3 Whois there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, whichis in Judah, and build the house of the LORD God of Israel, (heis the God,) whichis in Jerusalem. Daniel 3:12,16-18,23-30 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up… Daniel 6:20-28 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel:and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? … Jump to Previous AttentionAvailBehaviorBehaviourComplyDailyHamanHearkenedInformedJewMattersMordecai'sNewsOrderOverlookedReasonRefusedSpeakingStandWhetherWordsJump to Next AttentionAvailBehaviorBehaviourComplyDailyHamanHearkenedInformedJewMattersMordecai'sNewsOrderOverlookedReasonRefusedSpeakingStandWhetherWordsEsther 3 1.Haman, advanced by the king, and despised by Mordecai, seeks revenge upon the Jews.7.He casts lots.8.He obtains by false accusations a decree of the king to put the Jews to death.Day after day they warned himThis phrase indicates persistence and ongoing pressure from Mordecai's colleagues at the king's gate. The repetition of warnings suggests a significant cultural or social expectation that Mordecai was defying. In the Persian Empire, where this story is set, adherence to royal decrees and customs was expected, and deviation could lead to severe consequences. This persistence also highlights the tension between Mordecai's faith and the surrounding culture, a common theme in the lives of biblical figures who remain faithful to God amidst pagan societies. but he would not comply
Mordecai's refusal to comply demonstrates his steadfastness and commitment to his beliefs. This act of defiance can be seen as an expression of his faith and identity as a Jew, which often required standing against practices that conflicted with the worship of Yahweh. This mirrors the actions of other biblical figures like Daniel, who also refused to compromise his faith in a foreign land. Mordecai's noncompliance is a testament to his courage and conviction, qualities that are celebrated throughout Scripture. So they reported it to Haman
The act of reporting Mordecai's behavior to Haman introduces the antagonist of the story. Haman, an Agagite, is a descendant of the Amalekites, traditional enemies of Israel (Exodus 17:8-16). This historical enmity adds depth to the conflict, as Haman's position of power in the Persian Empire poses a direct threat to the Jewish people. The reporting of Mordecai's actions can be seen as a catalyst for the unfolding drama, setting the stage for the larger narrative of deliverance and divine providence. to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated
This phrase suggests uncertainty about the consequences of Mordecai's actions. It reflects the precarious position of Jews in the Persian Empire, where their customs and laws were often at odds with those of the ruling powers. The question of tolerance is central to the story, as it underscores the vulnerability of the Jewish people and the potential for persecution. This theme resonates with the broader biblical narrative of God's protection and deliverance of His people in times of trial. since he had told them he was a Jew
Mordecai's identification as a Jew is crucial to understanding his motivations and the subsequent events. By revealing his Jewish identity, Mordecai aligns himself with the covenant people of God, who are called to live according to His laws. This declaration sets the stage for the conflict with Haman, who harbors animosity towards the Jews. Mordecai's openness about his faith is a powerful statement of identity and loyalty to God, reminiscent of other biblical figures who boldly proclaimed their faith in hostile environments. Persons / Places / Events 1. MordecaiA Jew living in the Persian Empire, specifically in the citadel of Susa. He is a key figure in the Book of Esther, known for his refusal to bow to Haman, which sets off a chain of events leading to the deliverance of the Jewish people. 2. HamanAn Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes. He becomes enraged by Mordecai's refusal to bow to him and plots to destroy all the Jews in the empire. 3. SusaThe capital of the Persian Empire where the events of the Book of Esther take place. It is a significant location as the center of political power and intrigue. 4. The King's ServantsThese are the officials at the king's gate who question Mordecai about his refusal to bow to Haman. Their role is pivotal as they report Mordecai's behavior to Haman. 5. The Jewish PeopleThe ethnic and religious group to which Mordecai belongs. They are under threat due to Haman's plot, which is a central conflict in the account. Teaching Points Faithfulness to God Over Human AuthorityMordecai's refusal to bow to Haman is a powerful example of prioritizing obedience to God over compliance with human demands that contradict God's commandments. Courage in the Face of PersecutionMordecai's actions remind believers that standing firm in faith may lead to persecution, but God is sovereign and can use such situations for His purposes. The Power of InfluenceThe king's servants play a crucial role in escalating the situation. This highlights the impact of seemingly minor actions and words in influencing larger events. Identity and ConvictionMordecai's steadfastness is rooted in his identity as a Jew and his commitment to God's laws. Believers are encouraged to ground their actions in their identity in Christ. God's Sovereignty in AdversityThe unfolding events in Esther demonstrate God's control and providence, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned, encouraging trust in His unseen hand. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Esther 3:4?
2.Why did Mordecai refuse to comply with the king's command in Esther 3:4?
3.How does Mordecai's faithfulness inspire us to stand firm in our beliefs?
4.What Old Testament laws might have influenced Mordecai's actions in Esther 3:4?
5.How can we apply Mordecai's courage in our daily challenges today?
6.What does Esther 3:4 teach about the consequences of standing for God's truth?
7.Why did Mordecai refuse to bow to Haman in Esther 3:4?
8.How does Esther 3:4 challenge the concept of obedience to authority?
9.What historical context explains Mordecai's actions in Esther 3:4?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Esther 3?
11.What did Esther mean by 'If I perish, I perish'?
12.How did Esther save the Jews from Haman's plot?
13.Who was Mordecai in the Bible?
14.Why does the Book of Esther lack references to known historical Persian rulers?What Does Esther 3:4 Mean Day after day they warned him• The palace officials repeatedly pressed Mordecai to bow to Haman, establishing a pattern of relentless social pressure (cf.Genesis 39:10;Daniel 6:13). • Their daily warnings reveal how an ungodly culture seeks conformity, echoing Paul’s caution: “Do not be conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2). • Mordecai’s situation reminds us that tests of faith often come not as one-time events but as ongoing challenges.
but he would not comply• Mordecai’s refusal was steady and deliberate, mirroring the resolve of Daniel’s friends who would not worship Nebuchadnezzar’s image (Daniel 3:16-18) and the apostles who declared, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). • His stand flowed from loyalty to God’s command against idolatry (Exodus 20:3-5). • Persevering obedience, even when costly, is a hallmark of genuine faith (Hebrews 11:24-27).
So they reported it to Haman• Instead of respecting Mordecai’s conviction, the officials escalated the matter—much like the Chaldeans who accused the Jews before King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3:8-12). • This reveals how personal grudges or curiosity can weaponize authority against God’s people (Psalm 119:23). • It also sets the stage for God’s providential intervention, highlighting how He works through—even against—human schemes (Proverbs 21:30).
to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated• The officials sought an official ruling, reflecting the empire’s legalistic culture (Esther 1:19). • Their question underscores a timeless tension: Will God’s people be allowed to live out their convictions openly? (Acts 4:18-20). • When earthly powers test the boundaries of faith, the Lord remains sovereign, turning trials into opportunities for His glory (Philippians 1:12-13).
since he had told them he was a Jew• Mordecai’s open declaration of identity echoes Joseph’s and Daniel’s bold confessions in foreign courts (Genesis 40:15;Daniel 1:8). • By identifying himself, he linked his stance to covenant loyalty, not personal stubbornness (Deuteronomy 6:12). • His transparency foreshadows Christ’s call: “Whoever is ashamed of Me and My words… the Son of Man will be ashamed of him” (Luke 9:26). • This moment also exposes latent anti-Semitism, preparing the narrative for Haman’s genocidal plot (Esther 3:6), yet God will preserve His people (Jeremiah 31:35-37).
summaryEsther 3:4 portrays a steady clash between worldly pressure and covenant faithfulness. Daily warnings could not sway Mordecai because his identity and obedience were anchored in the Lord. The officials’ report to Haman highlights how opposition often escalates, yet even this serves God’s larger plan of deliverance. Standing firm in revealed truth, confessing our faith openly, and trusting God’s sovereign hand amid hostility remain as vital today as they were in Persia’s palace courts. (4) Whether Mordecai's matters would stand.--This should be, his words: whether his statement that he belonged to a nation who might only pay such reverence to God, would hold good.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Dayי֣וֹם(yō·wm)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3117:A dayafter dayוָי֔וֹם(wā·yō·wm)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3117:A daythey warned him,כְּאָמְרָ֤ם(kə·’ā·mə·rām)Preposition-k | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 559:To utter, saybut he would notוְלֹ֥א(wə·lō)Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nocomply.שָׁמַ֖ע(šā·ma‘)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 8085:To hear intelligentlySo they reported itוַיַּגִּ֣ידוּ(way·yag·gî·ḏū)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5046:To be conspicuousto Hamanלְהָמָ֗ן(lə·hā·mān)Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 2001:Haman -- to rage, be turbulentto seeלִרְאוֹת֙(lir·’ō·wṯ)Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 7200:To seewhether Mordecai'sמָרְדֳּכַ֔י(mā·rə·do·ḵay)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4782:Mordecai -- a companion of Zerubbabel, also a cousin of Estherbehaviorדִּבְרֵ֣י(diḇ·rê)Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1697:A word, a matter, thing, a causewould be tolerated,הֲיַֽעַמְדוּ֙(hă·ya·‘am·ḏū)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5975:To stand, in various relationssinceכִּֽי־(kî-)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionhe had toldהִגִּ֥יד(hig·gîḏ)Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5046:To be conspicuousthem heה֥וּא(hū)Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931:He, self, the same, this, that, as, arewas a Jew.יְהוּדִֽי׃(yə·hū·ḏî)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3064:Jews -- Jewish
Links Esther 3:4 NIVEsther 3:4 NLTEsther 3:4 ESVEsther 3:4 NASBEsther 3:4 KJV
Esther 3:4 BibleApps.comEsther 3:4 Biblia ParalelaEsther 3:4 Chinese BibleEsther 3:4 French BibleEsther 3:4 Catholic Bible
OT History: Esther 3:4 Now it came to pass when they (Est Esth. Es) |
