The Story of Esther

In ancient Persia, King Ahasuerus sought a new queen and chose the beautiful Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her wise cousin Mordecai. Mordecai instructed Esther to keep her heritage secret. Soon after, Mordecai saved the King by uncovering an assassination plot. However, the King’s advisor, Haman, grew hateful when Mordecai refused to bow to him. In his rage, Haman tricked the King into signing a decree to annihilate all Jews in the empire. Mordecai sent word to Esther, reminding her that she might have been made queen 'for such a time as this.' Though approaching the King uninvited carried a death sentence, Esther fasted and bravely entered the throne room. The King extended his golden scepter, sparing her life. During a grand banquet, she revealed Haman’s treachery and her own Jewish identity. The King, enraged by Haman's deceit, ordered him executed on the very gallows he had built for Mordecai. The decree was overturned, and the Jewish people were saved, a miracle celebrated to this day as the festival of Purim.

“And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of The Story of Esther?

The story teaches that one person's bravery can change the course of history. It emphasizes that we are often placed in specific positions to act with courage and justice during times of crisis.

Why do we celebrate Purim?

Purim is celebrated to commemorate the salvation of the Jewish people from Haman's plot to destroy them. It is a day of joy, feasting, and giving to the poor.

What did Esther do to save her people?

Esther risked her life by approaching King Ahasuerus without being summoned, which was punishable by death. She then cleverly revealed Haman's plot during a series of banquets she prepared for the king.

Who was Haman in the story of Esther?

Haman was the high-ranking advisor to King Ahasuerus who sought to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire. His pride and hatred eventually led to his own downfall and execution.

What was Mordecai's role in the story?

Mordecai was Esther's cousin and guardian who discovered an assassination plot against the king. He refused to bow to Haman and urged Esther to use her royal position to save her people.

Is the name of God mentioned in the Book of Esther?

Interestingly, the name of God is never explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther. This is often interpreted as a sign that God works behind the scenes through seemingly natural events.