A political turnaround sweeps through the Persian Empire, marking a dramatic climax in a struggle for survival. The very government apparatus originally tasked with carrying out a decree of annihilation completely reverses its course, mobilizing instead to protect the Jewish people. Not only do the common citizens refrain from causing harm, but the entire leadership structure stands firmly alongside them [יוסף אבן יחיא].
The shift in loyalty spans the entire chain of command. Local ministers overseeing individual districts, along with the highest-ranking officials who manage the kingdom's affairs directly in the king's presence, all offer their support. This extends to the military commanders responsible for warfare [יוסף אבן יחיא], as well as the vast network of government administrators [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. These administrators include those tasked with supplying the king's personal needs [רש"י], managing his assets and royal income [יוסף אבן יחיא], and overseeing state projects like construction and the minting of coins [אבן עזרא]. Together, this massive coalition of officials actively elevates the Jewish people, treating them with great honor [ביאור שטיינזלץ] and raising their public status [עמנואל הרומי].
This sudden wave of support is not driven by a fear of the Jewish people themselves. Legally, the government officials are well aware of the original decrees ordering their destruction. They could easily rely on those initial orders to simply stand aside or even assist the attackers. Instead, they choose to suppress the original decrees and actively defend the Jews out of a deep fear of Mordecai, worrying that he will take personal revenge against anyone who opposes him [מלבי"ם].
The source of this fear is a profound shift in power. When the first decrees were sent, Haman led the empire. Now, Mordecai holds the position of the highest-ranking minister in the royal palace, prompting the entire administration to grant the Jews complete freedom of action [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because these government officials and ministers work so closely with the crown, they understand the true extent of Mordecai's newly acquired power far better than the ordinary citizens of the provinces. Recognizing his absolute authority, they rush to align themselves with him [אבן עזרא].