The Book of Esther tells the story of a young Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and saves her people from annihilation. Set in the opulent Persian court, the narrative follows Esther's journey from obscurity to royalty, where she risks her life to reveal a plot to exterminate the Jews. The book highlights themes of courage, divine providence, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Esther's bravery and strategic intervention demonstrate how God uses ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Ultimately, the book emphasizes the triumph of good over evil and the enduring faithfulness of God to His people.

     The primary purpose of Esther is to illustrate God's providential care for His people, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned. The book showcases how God orchestrates events behind the scenes to protect the Jews from destruction. Esther's willingness to risk her life and Mordecai's wise counsel demonstrate that courage and faith can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Through Esther's example, the narrative underscores the importance of obedience, discernment, and trusting in God's timing.

     Jewish tradition attributes the authorship of Esther to Mordecai, Esther’s cousin and guardian, who played a central role in the events of the book. Written likely in the mid-fourth century BC, the book reflects the historical record of the Jewish community in Persia during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). The historical backdrop is crucial, as it reveals the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish people in exile and God’s unwavering commitment to preserve them.

     The events in Esther take place around 483–473 BC, during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen as queen after Ahasuerus deposes Queen Vashti. When Haman, a high-ranking official, plots to annihilate all the Jews in the kingdom, Mordecai urges Esther to intervene. Facing personal risk, Esther reveals Haman's plot to the king, leading to Haman's downfall and the deliverance of the Jewish people. The book also records the institution of the festival of Purim to commemorate this miraculous rescue.

     Key verses emphasize themes of divine providence, courage, and the power of intervention. Esther 4:14 emphasizes the Lord's divine purpose: "For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" God also reveals His justice in Esther 7:10, "So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s wrath subsided." Esther 9:22 establishes the celebration of Purim and the promised rest provided to them: "As the days on which the Jews had rest from their enemies, as the month which was turned from sorrow to joy for them, and from mourning to a holiday."

     The book is structured around key events. Chapters 1 and 2 introduce the Persian court, the selection of Esther as queen, and Mordecai's role in uncovering a plot against the king. Chapters 3–5 detail Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, Mordecai's plea to Esther, and Esther's courageous decision to approach the king. Chapters 6–8 shift focus to the reversal of fortune, as Haman is exposed and the Jews are granted permission to defend themselves. Chapters 9 and 10 record the Jews' victory over their enemies, the establishment of Purim, and Mordecai's rise to prominence.

     The overarching message of Esther is that God is always at work, even when unseen, to protect and deliver His people. The book portrays the power of courage, faith, and strategic action, showing that God can use ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary purposes. For readers today, Esther stands as a call to trust in God's providential care, remain steadfast in faith, and stand up for justice and righteousness in the face of adversity.

Chapter Content

1. King Ahasuerus holds a lavish banquet.
2. Esther becomes queen.
3. Haman plots to destroy the Jews.
4. Mordecai urges Esther to act.
5. Esther prepares a banquet for the king and Haman.
6. Haman's plot is revealed.
7. Haman is hanged.
8. The Jews are granted permission to defend themselves.
9. The Jews defeat their enemies.
10. The festival of Purim is established.