Est 3:15-4:1, 4:16 | ESV | STEP | The couriers went out hurriedly by order of the king , and the decree was issued in Susa the citadel . And the king and Haman sat down to drink , but the city of Susa was thrown into confusion .

a[See ver. 13 above]

Esther 3:15

15 ^aThe couriers went out hurriedly by order of the king, and the decree was issued in Susa the citadel. And the king and Haman sat down to drink, ^bbut the city of Susa was thrown into confusion.

Esther 4:1

Esther Agrees to Help the Jews

1 When Mordecai learned all that had been done, Mordecai tore his clothes ^cand put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and he cried out with a loud and bitter cry.

Esther 4:16

16 “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for ^dthree 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, ^eand if I perish, I perish.”