² The Jews ^(A)gathered together in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus to lay hands on those who ^(B)sought their harm. And no one could withstand them, ^(C)because fear of them fell upon all people. ³ And all the officials of the provinces, the satraps, the governors, and all those doing the king’s work, helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. ⁴ For Mordecai was great in the king’s palace, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for this man Mordecai ^(D)became increasingly prominent.