Esther 2:19

“And when the virgins were gathered together the second time, etc.] Some think this second collection is that which was made when Esther was taken and brought to the keeper of the women, called the second, in reference to a former collection of them, made when Vashti was taken and made queen; but as there is no proof of any such collection then made, rather the case was this, such was the lust of the king, though he had a queen he loved, and a multitude of concubine’s, yet a second collection of virgins was made for his gratification: then Mordecai sat in the king’s gate; or court, being an officer in it, promoted by the interest of Esther, though not as yet known to be a relation of her’s:…”

“When the virgins ... - Rather, “when virgins” etc. The words begin a new paragraph. There was a second collection of virgins (after that of Esther 2:8), and it was at the time of this second collection that Mordecai had the good fortune to save the king’s life. return to 'Top of Page'”

“Sat - By office, as one of the king's guards or ministers; being advanced to this place by Esther's favour. Next: Esther Chapter 3”

“2:19 Even after all the young women had been transferred to the second harem: Since the queen had been chosen, those in waiting would join the other concubines. • Mordecai had become a palace official (literally Mordecai was sitting in the gate of the king): Court cases were decided and much official business was conducted at the gate. There Mordecai was able to hear about the plot against the king (2:21-23).”

“the virgins: Est 2:3, Est 2:4 sat in the king's gate: Est 2:21, Est 3:2, Est 3:3, Est 5:13 Esther 2:20”

“Est 2:19-23 relate the intervention of an incident of great importance in the subsequent development of the narrative. When virgins were for the second time gathered together, two courtiers were incensed with the king, and sought to lay hands upon him. This thing was known to Mordochai, who sat in the gate of the palace and kept up a constant communication with Esther even after she became queen, and by him communicated to her, that she might bring it to the knowledge of the king. The matter being investigated and found to have been truly reported, the offenders were punished, and an entry of the particulars made in the chronicles of the kingdom. The words "when virgins were assembled for…”