The Book of Esther

How can I bear to see the calamity that is coming on my people?

The Books of the Tanakh (Hebrew Scriptures)

Previous Book: Nehemiah

Next Book: Job

Language

Hebrew

Section of Tanakh

Ketuvim (Scriptures)

People

King Ahasuerus

Queen Vashti

Queen Esther

Mordecai

Haman

Summary

The Book of Esther is a dramatic biblical narrative set in the Persian Empire during the reign of King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I). It tells the story of a young Jewish woman, Esther, who rises to become queen and courageously saves her people from destruction.

The story begins with King Ahasuerus dismissing his queen, Vashti, for refusing to appear before him. A nationwide search is held to find a new queen, and Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen.

Meanwhile, Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and reports it, earning the king’s favor. However, the king’s advisor, Haman, harbors hatred for Mordecai because he refuses to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman convinces the king to issue a decree to annihilate all Jews in the empire.

Mordecai urges Esther to intervene, warning her that she, too, is at risk. She bravely approaches the king, revealing Haman’s plot and her Jewish identity. The king is outraged and orders Haman’s execution.

The king issues a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves, leading to their victory over their enemies. The Jewish people celebrate their deliverance with the festival of Purim, which is still observed today.

The Book of Esther highlights themes of divine providence, courage, and the importance of standing up for justice, even in the face of great personal risk. Though God is never explicitly mentioned in the book, His presence is seen throughout the events that lead to the salvation of the Jewish people.

Chapters

Chapter 1	King Ahasuerus Deposes Queen Vashti | Esther 1
Chapter 2	Esther Becomes Queen & Mordecai Discovers a Plot | Esther 2
Chapter 3	Haman Undertakes to Destroy the Jews | Esther 3
Chapter 4	Esther Agrees to Help the Jews | Esther 4
Chapter 5	Esther’s Banquet & Haman Plans to Have Mordecai Hanged | Esther 5
Chapter 6	The King Honors Mordecai | Esther 6
Chapter 7	Haman’s Downfall and Mordecai’s Advancement | Esther 7
Chapter 8	Esther Saves the Jews | Esther 8
Chapter 9	Destruction of the Enemies of the Jews & The Feast of Purim Inaugurated | Esther 9
Chapter 10	Conclusion | Esther 10

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