If I perish, I perish

The narrative of Esther occupies a unique place in the canon of Scripture, offering a profound exploration of divine providence, human agency, and sacrificial obedience. Within evangelical theology, Esther's bold proclamation, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16, ESV), emerges as a seminal expression of faith that elevates obedience to God's sovereign will above the innate human instinct for self-preservation. This declaration is not merely a personal resolve but a theological statement that underscores the primacy of God's purposes in the life of a believer.

Esther's story resonates with renewed urgency in an era where the Church grapples with cultural assimilation, moral relativism, and the challenge of standing firm in faith amidst adversity. Her willingness to risk her life for the deliverance of her people embodies the essence of the Gospel's call to self-denial and sacrificial love. This exploration seeks to delve deeply into the theological dimensions of Esther's choice, examining its Biblical foundations, linguistic nuances, and its enduring implications for evangelical believers today.

Exegetical Analysis

It is essential to engage in a detailed exegesis of Esther 4:15-16, to comprehend the full weight of Esther's decision, considering the historical, cultural, and textual contexts that frame her actions.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Book of Esther is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia, approximately between 486 and 465 B.C. The Jewish people, exiled from their homeland, are dispersed throughout the Persian Empire. The narrative unfolds in Susa, the royal city, where Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, ascends to the position of queen (Esther 2:17, ESV).

The plot intensifies with the rise of Haman, an Agagite who harbors deep animosity towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him (Esther 3:2-6, ESV). Haman's vendetta culminates in a royal decree to annihilate all Jews within the empire (Esther 3:13, ESV). It is against this backdrop of impending genocide that Esther must decide whether to intervene by approaching the king unbidden, a perilous act punishable by death (Esther 4:11, ESV).

Textual Examination of Esther 4:15-16

"Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, 'Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day.  I and my young women will also fast as you do.  Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.'" (Esther 4:15-16, ESV)

Esther's response marks a decisive shift from hesitation to action. Initially, she cites the legal prohibitions and the personal risk involved (Esther 4:11, ESV). However, Mordecai's poignant reminder that her silence would not exempt her from the fate of her people, coupled with the possibility that she attained her royal position for this very purpose (Esther 4:14, ESV), compels her to embrace her role.

Original Language Insights

Examining the Hebrew text reveals layers of meaning that enhance our understanding of Esther's resolve.

"Go, gather all the Jews": The Hebrew word for "gather" is "קָבַץ" (qavatz), which signifies assembling or collecting. This collective action underscores the communal aspect of the fast, emphasizing unity and shared supplication before God.

"Hold a fast": The term "צוּם" (tzum) denotes fasting, an act of humbling oneself before God, often associated with repentance and seeking divine favor (Brown, Driver, & Briggs, 1906). Fasting for "three days, night or day" intensifies the urgency and seriousness of the petition.

"I will go to the king, though it is against the law": The phrase "אֲשֶׁר לֹא כַדָּת" (asher lo khadat) translates to "which is not according to the law." The word "דָּת" (dat) refers to decree or law, highlighting that Esther's intended action directly contravenes royal edict, thus placing her life at risk.

"If I perish, I perish": The Hebrew construction "וְכַאֲשֶׁר אָבַדְתִּי אָבָדְתִּי" (veka'asher avadti, avadti) employs the verb "אָבַד" (avad) twice, emphasizing the finality of death. The repetition conveys acceptance and resignation, indicating that Esther fully embraces the potential outcome.

By analyzing these key terms, we gain insight into Esther's mindset—a blend of determined action and profound faith in God's providence.

Theological Significance of Fasting

Fasting in the Hebrew tradition is more than abstaining from food; it is a spiritual discipline to seek God's intervention. In this context, Esther's call for a fast signifies a collective turning to God, acknowledging dependence on His deliverance. The absence of explicit mention of prayer does not diminish the spiritual intent; fasting inherently involves seeking God's favor.

Comparison with Other Biblical Figures

Esther's willingness to risk her life parallels other instances in Scripture where individuals prioritized obedience over personal safety. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's refusal to worship the golden image, despite the threat of the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:16-18, ESV), and Daniel's continued prayer in defiance of the king's decree (Daniel 6:10, ESV) exemplify similar convictions.

Theological Discussion

Obedience Rooted in Faith

Esther's decision reflects a deep-seated faith in God's sovereignty. Although God's name is notably absent from the Book of Esther, His presence is discernible through the unfolding events. Evangelical theology recognizes this as a testament to divine providence—the belief that God governs all things in accordance with His will.

By stating, "If I perish, I perish," Esther will subordinate her personal welfare to God's plan. This aligns with the evangelical emphasis on faith as trust in God's character and submission to His lordship.

Divine Providence and Human Responsibility

Mordecai's assertion in Esther 4:14, "And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (ESV), introduces the concept of divine appointment. This suggests that Esther's position is not coincidental but orchestrated by God for the purpose of deliverance.

Evangelical theology often grapples with the relationship between divine sovereignty and human free will. Esther's story illustrates that while God is sovereign, He invites human participation in His redemptive work. Esther's choice to act becomes the means through which God's plan unfolds.

The Cost of Discipleship

Esther's readiness to face death echoes Jesus' call to His disciples: "Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it" (Matthew 16:25, ESV). The cost of discipleship involves a willingness to forsake personal security to pursue God's mission.

The Apostle Paul embodies this principle, declaring, "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus" (Acts 20:24, ESV). Paul's ministry was marked by hardship and persecution, yet he remained steadfast in obedience.

Implications for Modern Believers

Esther's narrative challenges contemporary Christians to examine their own commitment to God's purposes. The call to sacrificial obedience may seem daunting in a society that prioritizes personal comfort and safety. However, Esther's example demonstrates that true fulfillment lies in aligning with God's will, even at great personal cost.

The Role of Courage in Faith

Courage is a recurring theme in the Bible, often linked with faith. Joshua was commanded, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9, ESV). Esther embodies this courage, stepping into the king's presence despite the mortal risk.

Courage in the evangelical context is not mere bravado but stems from confidence in God's presence and promises. It enables believers to act righteously in the face of fear, trusting that God is sovereign over the outcomes.

Potential Counterarguments

Some scholars argue that Esther's actions were motivated more by ethnic loyalty or self-preservation than by faith. They point out that the Book of Esther lacks explicit references to God, prayer, or religious practices beyond fasting.

However, the evangelical perspective interprets the absence of explicit references as a literary device highlighting God's hidden yet active role. The cumulative evidence of providential coincidences—Esther's selection as queen, Mordecai's uncovering of a plot against the king (Esther 2:21-23, ESV), and the reversal of Haman's edict—points to divine orchestration.

Furthermore, fasting in the Jewish tradition is intrinsically linked to seeking God's favor, implying a spiritual dimension to Esther's actions.

Insights from Evangelical Theologians

Charles Spurgeon emphasizes the providential aspects of Esther's story: "God was in the shadows, keeping watch above His own. Though His name does not occur in the Book of Esther, His finger is there, moving the pieces on the board" (Spurgeon, 1885).

John Piper reflects on Esther's faith: "Esther's courage was not the absence of fear but the resolve to act in faith despite her fear" (Piper, 2012). Piper highlights that true faith often involves overcoming uncertainty and trusting in God's faithfulness.

Timothy Keller discusses the theme of identity in Esther: "Esther had to embrace her identity as one of God's people before she could fulfill her calling. Only when she acknowledged who she was could she act on behalf of others" (Keller, 2015). This underscores the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ as foundational to obedience.

Application to the Church

Esther's story has profound implications for the Church's mission. The collective fasting and unity among the Jews serve as a model for corporate prayer and solidarity within the Church. In times of crisis, the Body of Christ is called to unite and seek God's intervention.

Moreover, Esther's willingness to advocate for her people challenges the Church to engage in social justice and stand against oppression. Her actions demonstrate that faith is not passive but involves active participation in God's redemptive work in the world.

Conclusion

Esther's declaration, "If I perish, I perish," encapsulates a theology of obedience that transcends personal preservation. Her story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of faith-driven action. By prioritizing God's purposes over her own safety, Esther becomes an instrument of deliverance, illustrating how individual obedience can have far-reaching consequences.

Esther's example inspires and challenges the modern Church. It invites believers to examine their own willingness to embrace God's call, even when it involves risk or sacrifice. In a world increasingly hostile to Biblical values, the need for courageous obedience is ever more pressing.

Theologically, Esther's narrative reinforces key evangelical doctrines of divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the cost of discipleship. It affirms that God works through willing individuals to accomplish His purposes and that such obedience often requires stepping beyond comfort zones.

As we reflect on Esther's story, may we, like her, be willing to say, "If I perish, I perish," trusting that obedience to the sovereign Lord is of greater value than preserving our own lives. In doing so, we align ourselves with the heart of the Gospel and participate in unfolding God's redemptive plan for humanity.