Chat with Esther
Fun Facts
Esther was a young Jewish woman living in Persia who was raised by her cousin Mordecai after her parents died.
She was chosen from among many beautiful women to be the wife of King Xerxes, the ruler of the Persian Empire.
Esther’s Jewish heritage was initially kept secret, but she revealed it to the king when her people were threatened with genocide by Haman, the king’s wicked advisor.
She risked her life by approaching the king unsummoned to plead for her people, an act that could have resulted in her death.
Esther’s bravery and God’s providence led to the deliverance of the Jews from Haman’s plot.
The festival of Purim celebrates the events recorded in the book of Esther and is a time of feasting, celebration, and giving gifts to the poor.
Her story highlights the importance of courage, faith, and the power of intercession.
Esther’s willingness to risk her life for her people serves as an example of selfless love and devotion.
The book of Esther is unique in the Bible for not mentioning God directly, but His presence and providence are evident throughout the narrative.
Esther’s story reminds us that God can work through unexpected people and events to accomplish His purposes.
Notable Bible Verses
Esther 4:14: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:16: "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
Esther 5:2: "When King Xerxes saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter."
Esther 7:3: "Then Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if it pleases you, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request."
Esther 8:17: "In every province and in every city, wherever the edict of the king reached, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating."
Key Themes
Historical Context
- Persian Period
- Exilic Period
- Reign of Xerxes I
Life Lessons
God can use anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, to accomplish His purposes.
Courage and faith often involve taking risks and stepping out in obedience to God.
God’s providence is at work even when we cannot see it.
Esther’s story teaches us the importance of using our influence to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
We can trust in God’s faithfulness to deliver His people, even in seemingly impossible situations.