[(C.1) Pismo ja glasilo ovako: “Veliki kralj Artakserks piše namjesnicima i njima podložnim upraviteljima u sto dvadeset i sedam pokrajina od Indije do Etiopije: (C.2) Kao vladar mnogih naroda i gospodar svega svijeta ne ću se uznositi u veličini svoje vlasti, nego ću nastojati da blago i milostivo vladam, da život svojih podanika zauvijek osiguram od nemira, da kraljevstvu do granica dam prohodne i ugodne ceste i da mu vratim mir za kojim svatko čezne. (C.3) Kad upitah svoje savjetnike kako da se to postigne, Haman, koji je najbliži kralju i odlikuje se mudrošću, nepromjenljivom odanošću, pouzdanošću i vjernošću, (C.4) predloži nam: Među svima narodima na zemlji ima jedan narod koji misli neprijateljski. On se svojim zakonima stalno protivi svim drugim narodima i krši kraljeve odredbe, tako da vlada kraljevstva, koju mi besprijekorno vodimo, ne može doći do mira. (C.5) I razmotrismo i uvidjesmo da jedino taj narod uvijek prema svakome zauzima neprijateljsko stajalište, da živi po tuđim zakonima, da se protivi našim odredbama, da čini najgore zločine i da onemogućuje blagostanje kraljevstva. (C.6) Zato određujemo: Svi koje vam pismeno označi Haman, upravitelj državnih poslova i naš drugi otac, moraju se sa ženom i djetetom četrnćstoga dana dvanćstoga mjeseca adara ove godine posve istrijebiti neprijateljskim mačem bez milosti i milosrđa. (C.7) Tako se moraju odavno i sada opaki ljudi u jedan dan uputiti dolje, u podzemni svijet, i državni poslovi ubuduće moraju ostati uvijek u dobrom redu i bez ometanja.” ] Kad Mordokaj sve to dozna, razdre svoje haljine, odjene se u kostrijet i posu glavu pepelom, pođe tako u grad i stane iza glasa gorko vikati.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes Mordecai's reaction to some bad news. He tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went into the city crying loudly to show how upset he was. Mordecai is not speaking, but his actions speak for him, showing deep distress.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you found out your best friend was in trouble and you felt really sad and worried. Mordecai felt that way, but instead of just being sad, he showed everyone how upset he was by tearing his clothes and wearing something uncomfortable to show how much he cared.
Historical Background
The book of Esther was likely written around 400 BC and tells the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and saves her people from a plot to destroy them. The audience would have been the Jewish people who were in exile in Persia.
Living It Out Today
When we hear news that deeply affects us, like a friend facing a hard time, we can show our concern and support through our actions, just as Mordecai did. This can mean reaching out to them, praying for them, or finding ways to help.
Tearing one's clothes was an ancient way of showing deep sorrow or grief, indicating that Mordecai was extremely upset by the news he received.
What is sackcloth?
Sackcloth is a coarse fabric made from animal hair or plant fibers, often worn as a sign of mourning or penitence, similar to wearing a very uncomfortable shirt today.
What does it mean to cry 'with a loud and a bitter cry'?
This phrase emphasizes the intensity and depth of Mordecai's sorrow, showing how much he was affected by the news and his desire to express this to others.
How does this verse relate to modern times?
In today's context, this verse teaches us to show our support and concern for others in times of crisis, whether through words or actions, to help and encourage them.