Esther is a dramatic and inspiring narrative showing God’s providential protection over His people even when His name is never mentioned directly. Set in Persia, the story follows Esther’s rise to the position of queen and her courageous decision to risk her life to save the Jewish people from destruction. The book highlights God’s unseen sovereignty, human courage, and the reversal of evil plans.
Background
Author: Unknown (traditionally linked to Ezra or Mordecai)
Audience: Jewish people living in Persia and beyond
Date: 460–350 BC
Location Written: Persia
Context: After the Babylonian exile, many Jews lived throughout the Persian Empire. Under King Xerxes, a plot emerged to annihilate the Jewish people. Through Esther and Mordecai, God orchestrated events to expose the plot, protect His people, and establish the feast of Purim as a memorial of deliverance. The book shows how God can work behind the scenes through ordinary people.
Characters
- Esther — Jewish woman who becomes queen and courageously saves her people
- Mordecai — Esther’s cousin and guardian who uncovers a plot and inspires her bravery
- Haman — high official who plots the destruction of the Jews
- King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) — Persian king ruling over a vast empire
- Jewish People — targeted for destruction but preserved through God’s providence
Major Events
- Queen Vashti is deposed, and Esther becomes queen (Chapters 1–2)
- Mordecai uncovers a plot against the king (Chapter 2)
- Haman schemes to destroy the Jewish people (Chapter 3)
- Esther risks her life and approaches the king (Chapters 4–5)
- Haman’s downfall and execution (Chapter 7)
- A new decree allows the Jews to defend themselves (Chapter 8)
- Jewish victory over their enemies (Chapter 9)
- Establishment of the feast of Purim (Chapter 9)
Application & Life Lessons
- God works behind the scenes even when He seems silent
- Courage and obedience in difficult moments can change history
- Pride and hatred lead to destruction, while humility leads to honor
- God places people in specific positions for His purposes
- Deliverance often comes through ordinary individuals acting in faith
- Remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthens present faith
- Evil schemes cannot thwart God’s sovereign plan
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Esther
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Esther
Podcasts
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Articles
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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