Ester 2:15

2:15 When it became the turn of Esther daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai (who had raised her as if she were his own daughter¹) to go to the king, she did not request anything except what Hegai the king’s eunuch, who was overseer of the women, had recommended. Yet Esther met with the approval of all who saw her.

Ester 2:17

2:17 And the king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she met with his loving approval² more than all the other young women.³ So he placed the royal high turban on her head and appointed her queen⁴ in place of Vashti.

Ester 4:3

4:3 Throughout each and every province where the king’s edict and law were announced⁵ there was considerable⁶ mourning among the Jews, along with fasting, weeping, and sorrow.⁷ Sackcloth and ashes were characteristic⁸ of many.

Ester 5:9

Haman Expresses His Hatred of Mordecai

5:9 Now Haman went forth that day pleased and very much encouraged.⁹ But when Haman saw Mordecai at the king’s gate, and he did not rise nor tremble in his presence,¹⁰ Haman was filled with rage toward Mordecai.

Ester 9:2

9:2 The Jews assembled themselves in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus to strike out against those who were seeking their harm. No one was able to stand before them, for dread of them fell on all the peoples.

Ester 10:3

10:3 Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Ahasuerus. He was the highest-ranking¹¹ Jew, and he was admired by his numerous relatives.¹² He worked enthusiastically¹³ for the good of his people and was an advocate for the welfare of¹⁴ all his descendants.¹⁵