The story of Esther in the Bible contains many examples of courage, wisdom, and faith. One of the most famous lines from the book of Esther is when Esther resolves to approach the king unsummoned, saying “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). This line reveals much about Esther’s character and the significance of her decision.
To understand the significance of this statement, it is important to know the context. Esther was a Jewish woman living in Persia, married to the Persian king Ahasuerus. When Haman, one of the king’s officials, plotted to destroy all the Jews in Persia, Esther’s cousin Mordecai urged her to appeal to the king to save her people. However, approaching the king without being summoned was risky and potentially punishable by death (Esther 4:11). After fasting and praying for three days, Esther resolved to approach the king, saying the famous words “If I perish, I perish.”
This statement reveals several significant themes and characteristics about Esther:
1. Self-sacrifice for the greater good
Esther was willing to risk her life for the sake of her people. She prioritized the lives of the Jews over her own personal safety, showcasing self-sacrifice. Her courageous offer to approach the king demonstrated leadership, love for her people, and commitment to justice.
2. Dependence on God
Esther’s statement came after praying and fasting for three days, indicating her dependence on God. Though taking action herself, Esther ultimately left the results in God’s hands. Her “if I perish, I perish” showed that while she would make the effort, she accepted that the outcome was in God’s sovereign plan.
3. Display of courage
Approaching the Persian king was intimidating and life-threatening. Esther’s willingness to take this tremendous risk demonstrated remarkable courage and bravery. She was resolute in doing the right thing despite potential consequences.
4. Commitment to justice
Esther was committed to pursuing justice, even when it was scary and hazardous. She resolved to do everything in her power to save her people from Haman’s genocidal plans. Her “if I perish, I perish” reflected deep dedication to righteous principles.
5. Trust in divine providence
Esther’s statement hints at trust in God’s divine providence. She implies willingness to accept peril if it is part of God’s plans, plans she believes will ultimately work for good. Her attitude shows faith that her life was in God’s hands regardless of whether she perished.
6. Determination and resolve
The simple but powerful statement “if I perish, I perish” expresses steely determination. Esther absolutely resolved to approach the king, no matter the consequences. Short and poetic, this phrase conveys firm intentions and commitment.
7. Acceptance of mortality
Esther’s willingness to perish indicates that she accepted her own mortality. She knew life and death were under God’s control, not hers. Hence she was ready to accept death courageously if it came while doing the right thing.
8. Embracing duty over personal interests
Esther prioritized her duty to her people over her personal interests in palace comforts or safety. Saying “if I perish, I perish” meant Esther accepted that fulfilling her responsibilities might cost her life.
In summary, Esther’s famous words reveal that she courageously chose duty and justice over personal interests, displaying self-sacrifice, godly dependence, determination, and trust in God’s sovereignty. Her willingness to perish while trying to save her people demonstrated remarkable leadership, faith, and commitment to righteousness. Esther’s bold declaration continues to inspire many to courageously do the right thing, whatever the cost.
Though Esther courageously declared “if I perish, I perish”, God indeed had providential plans to use Esther to save the Jews and destroy their enemies. Her brave willingness to die for her people and for what is right stands as an inspiring example of self-sacrificial leadership and devotion to justice for all time.
The events that unfolded after Esther’s iconic statement provide additional insight into its significance:
9. God honored her courage
Though Esther was willing to die when approaching the king, God providentially spared her life. The king extended his scepter, welcomed her, and favored her petition to save the Jews from Haman’s plot. Her courageous stand was rewarded.
10. The Jews were saved
Because of Esther’s willingness to perish, the Jews were ultimately saved and Haman’s genocidal plans reversed. Her people’s lives were preserved because of her self-sacrifice. Justice prevailed.
11. God’s sovereignty was displayed
The entire story showcases God’s sovereignty and divine providence in each twist and turn. Esther’s “if I perish” attitude left the results up to God, and the ensuing events proved that God was indeed in control.
12. Esther found continued favor
Even after saving the Jews, Esther continued in the king’s favor. Her courage led not only to saving lives but also ongoing influence in the palace. God blessed her for her upright actions.
13. Evil intents were defeated
Haman’s evil plans to annihilate the Jews were thwarted and reversed. Justice triumphed over intended genocide. Esther’s willingness to perish contributed to defeating death and promoting life.
14. God was glorified
The entire narrative displays God’s providential care and mighty acts to deliver His people. Through Esther’s courage and the ensuing events, the greatness of God was put on display.
In the bigger picture, Esther’s “if I perish, I perish” stands as an inspiring example of living by faith and adhering to righteous principles, no matter the earthly cost. God ultimately vindicated her courageous stand, displaying His sovereignty and care for those devoted to justice and willing to leave outcomes in His hands. Esther’s iconic statement challenges all believers to courageously do the right thing in the face of danger and potential loss.
Some key Bible passages providing insight into this famous statement include:
Esther 4:13-16 – Mordecai urges Esther to approach the king on behalf of her people. She resolves to do so, saying “if I perish, I perish.”
Esther 5:1-8 – Esther approaches the king and is received favorably, sparing her life.
Esther 7:1-10 – Esther exposes Haman’s plot against the Jews. The king acts to save the Jews and punish Haman.
Esther 8:1-8 – The king enables Esther and Mordecai to issue a new decree saving the Jews.
Esther 9:20-10:3 – Mordecai is given Haman’s former position and continues to advocate for the Jews. Esther’s legacy is established.
In summary, Esther’s courageous declaration “if I perish, I perish” highlights her commitment to righteousness, leadership through self-sacrifice, dependence on God, and willingness to die for a just cause. Her bravery was used by God to save the Jews from destruction. Esther’s stand continues to inspire believers to boldly do the right.
