The name Mordecai originates from Persian, meaning 'servant of Marduk'. In the Old Testament, Mordecai is a key figure, being the cousin and foster father of Esther. He is celebrated for thwarting a plot to kill the Persian king, thereby saving the Jewish people from extermination. His story is central to the Jewish holiday of Purim, which commemorates his victory over Haman, the king's chief advisor.