The original Hebrew account, as mentioned in the Introduction, was later supplemented with Greek texts, probably to add a religious element not explicitly present in the original Hebrew. Indeed, God is not mentioned anywhere in the Hebrew text, although it is clear that the events and the outcome of the plot can only be the work of the God of the Jews. Perhaps the readers, when the book was translated into Greek, had some doubts about the lack of explicit religious content, which led to the additions.
This initial section, therefore, highlights one of several additions in Greek. Some elements that will play a significant role throughout the work are introduced here: Mordecai’s name and background; Mordecai’s dream, which will be explained and interpreted at the end of the work in light of the events (10:5-11). The plot outline, which follows traditional models of Jewish narrative, is also presented: a grave danger threatens the people; the people, guided by their leader or leaders, turn to God; God responds by saving them from harm and granting them victory.