Definition: For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king’s damage.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Esther 7:4 in a way that's easy to understand. It’s a really powerful passage about courage and faith in the face of overwhelming odds. Here’s what it means, broken down piece by piece: 1. "Esther 7:4 For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish." “We are sold…” : This is a dramatic way of saying that everyone in the group – Esther, her people, and even the kingdom – is facing a terrible fate. It’s not just about them individually, but about their entire future being threatened. “…I and my people…” : This highlights that it's not just Esther who's at risk; it's the entire group. It emphasizes that this isn't just one person making a mistake; it’s a collective responsibility. “To be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish” : These words paint a very bleak picture. “Destroyed” means completely erased from existence. “Snatched” means killed. “Perish” means to cease to exist entirely – essentially, to die. It’s a terrifying image of utter loss. 2. "But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue…” “But if we had been sold…” : This is the crucial part that shifts the focus from immediate destruction to a potential better outcome . It’s asking: “What if things had gone differently?” “…I had held my tongue” : This is where it gets really interesting. Esther, instead of speaking up against the king, remained silent. She didn’t argue or defend herself. 3. "Although the enemy could not countervail the king’s damage." “Although the enemy could not countervail…” : This means that even if someone else tried to stop the king from doing what he wanted – and they failed – Esther still didn't intervene. The enemy wasn't powerful enough to stop him. "...the king’s damage" : This refers to the king making a terrible decision, possibly to harm the people. It highlights that the threat isn't just about personal fate; it’s about the kingdom being harmed. So, putting it all together: The verse is saying: “If we had been vulnerable and offered ourselves up as slaves – sold, killed, and lost – and if we hadn't spoken out against the king, he wouldn’t have caused so much damage.” The Significance & Interpretation This is a really important story in the Bible because it shows: Faith and Courage: Esther demonstrates incredible faith and courage by refusing to be manipulated. Importance of Silence: Sometimes, silence can be a powerful act of protection. It’s not always about shouting or fighting – sometimes, remaining silent is the best way to stop harm. God's Protection: The verse suggests that God watches over us and protects us even when we are vulnerable. In essence, this passage is a reminder that even in difficult situations, our faith and quiet resistance can be incredibly powerful. --- Would you like me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this story to a larger theme in the Bible (like obedience or resisting temptation)?