Esther 4

When Mordecai learns of the decree, he tears his clothes, puts on sackcloth and ashes, and publicly wails in the city. Esther, unaware of the danger, sends clothes to Mordecai, but he refuses. Mordecai then sends a message to Esther, revealing the plot and urging her to go before the King to plead for her people. Esther reminds Mordecai that anyone who approaches the King without being summoned is put to death, unless the King extends his golden scepter. Mordecai delivers the critical challenge: "Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"