This verse from the Book of Esther (10:3) translates as follows:
“For Mordechai the Jew was second to King Achashverosh, and great among the Jews, and accepted by the majority of his brethren…”
The Core Question: Praise or Blame?
The text you shared dives into a fascinating rabbinic debate. While the verse sounds like a glowing review, the word **”majority” (רוב)** suggests that not *everyone* was a fan. If he was so great, why wasn’t he accepted by *all* his brothers?
Here is a breakdown of the insights from your text:
—
1. The Paradox of the “Perfect Tzaddik”
The *Torat Yechezkel* offers a profound psychological and spiritual take:
* **Integrity vs. Popularity:** A truly “whole” or “sincere” person (*Tzaddik Tamim*) acts solely to fulfill God’s will, regardless of public opinion.
* **The Litmus Test:** If everyone likes you, you might be a people-pleaser. If you have both admirers (praise) and detractors (blame), it’s often a sign that you are acting with pure integrity.
* **The Verdict:** The fact that some criticized Mordechai is actually **his highest praise.** It proves he wasn’t “playing politics” to stay popular; he was doing what was necessary for the Jewish people’s survival.
2. Why did the Sanhedrin distance themselves?
The Talmud (Megillah 16b) notes that some members of the Sanhedrin (the high court) turned away from Mordechai.
* **The Reason:** They felt that by becoming the King’s right-hand man, he was “neglecting” his full-time Torah study to deal with government affairs (*Sherarah*).
* **The Lesson:** Leadership involves trade-offs. Mordechai sacrificed his personal spiritual growth and his reputation among the elite to save the nation.
3. Was Mordechai “Provoking” the Gentiles?
The appendix in your text mentions a historical critique:
* **The “Troublemaker” Argument:** Some sources (like Midrash Tanchuma) suggest Mordechai was blamed for “poking the bear” by refusing to bow to Haman, which led to the decree of genocide.
* **The Defense:** Great thinkers like the Maharal and Rabbi Dessler defend Mordechai, arguing his “provocation” was a necessary spiritual stand against idolatry, not a reckless political move.
### Summary Table
| Perspective | View of Mordecai | Reason |
| The “Majority” | Praise | He saved the nation and rose to high office. |
| The “Minority” (Sanhedrin) | Blame / Critique | He left the Study Hall for the Palace. |
| The Critics | Blame | He unnecessarily provoked Haman. |
| Torat Yechezkel | Ultimate Praise | The controversy proves his absolute sincerity (Tamimut). |
Insight: This text teaches a powerful “Moral of the Story” for leaders: If you are doing something for the sake of Heaven, don’t be deterred by the “mockers.” In fact, their criticism might just be the confirmation that you’re doing exactly what you’re supposed to do.