This is a pivotal verse whose function is to shift the scene from Esther to Mordecai.

The open square was the open space that was located in front of the king’s palace. A technical term such as “city square” (Good News Translation) or “plaza” may be used, or a description such as “open area.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Noss, Philip A. A Handbook on Esther (The Hebrew Text). (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .