Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The Book of Esther is a unique and captivating narrative found in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is one of the two books named after a woman, the other being Ruth. The account is set in the Persian Empire during the reign of King Xerxes I (also known as Ahasuerus), and it provides a profound account of divine providence, courage, and the deliverance of the Jewish people from annihilation. Authorship and Date: The authorship of the Book of Esther is traditionally attributed to Mordecai, a central figure in the narrative, though the text itself does not specify an author. The events described are believed to have occurred during the reign of Xerxes I, around 486-465 BC. The book was likely written shortly thereafter, during the Persian period. Historical Context: The Book of Esther is set in the Persian capital of Susa, during a time when the Jewish people were living in exile. The Persian Empire was vast, stretching from India to Ethiopia, and the Jewish community was dispersed throughout the empire. The narrative reflects the challenges faced by the Jewish diaspora, including the threat of persecution and the struggle to maintain their identity and faith in a foreign land. Structure and Content: The Book of Esther is composed of ten chapters and can be divided into several key sections: 1. The Rise of Esther (Chapters 1-2): The narrative begins with a grand banquet hosted by King Xerxes, during which Queen Vashti is deposed for her refusal to appear before the king. A search for a new queen leads to the selection of Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Esther's beauty and grace win her favor, and she becomes queen, though her Jewish identity remains a secret. 2. The Plot Against the Jews (Chapters 3-4): Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official, becomes enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman devises a plot to annihilate all the Jews in the empire, casting lots (purim) to determine the date of their destruction. Mordecai learns of the plot and urges Esther to intercede with the king, reminding her of her providential position: "And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). 3. Esther's Intervention (Chapters 5-7): Esther courageously approaches the king, risking her life, and invites him and Haman to a banquet. During the second banquet, Esther reveals her Jewish identity and exposes Haman's plot. The king, enraged by Haman's treachery, orders Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. 4. The Jews' Deliverance (Chapters 8-10): With Haman's death, Esther and Mordecai are given authority to issue a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. On the appointed day, the Jews successfully thwart their enemies. The victory is celebrated with the institution of the Feast of Purim, commemorating their deliverance. Mordecai is elevated to a position of prominence in the kingdom. Theological Themes: The Book of Esther is notable for its absence of any direct mention of God, yet His providential hand is evident throughout the narrative. The account underscores themes of divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the reversal of fortunes. Esther's bravery and Mordecai's faithfulness exemplify the importance of standing firm in one's convictions and trusting in God's plan. Significance in Jewish Tradition: The Feast of Purim, established in the Book of Esther, remains a significant Jewish festival, celebrating the survival and resilience of the Jewish people. The reading of the Megillah (the scroll of Esther) is central to the observance, and the themes of the book continue to resonate with Jewish communities worldwide. Conclusion: The Book of Esther is a powerful testament to the courage and faith of individuals who, despite overwhelming odds, played pivotal roles in the preservation of their people. Its enduring message of hope and divine intervention continues to inspire readers across generations. Smith's Bible Dictionary Book Of Estherone of the latest of the canonical books of Scripture, having been written late in the reign of Xerxes, or early in that of his son Artaxerxes Longimanus (B.C. 444, 434). The author is not known. The book of Esther is placed among the hagiographa by the Jews, and in that first portion of them which they call "the five rolls." It is written on a single roll, sin a dramatic style, and is read through by the Jews in their synagogues at the feast of Purim, when it is said that the names of Haman's sons are read rapidly all in one breath, to signify that they were all hanged at the same time; while at every mention of Haman the audience stamp and shout and hiss, and the children spring rattles. It has often been remarked as a peculiarity of this book that the name of God does not once occur in it. Schaff gives as the reason for this that it was to permit the reading of the book at the hilarious and noisy festival of Purim, without irreverence. The style of writing is remarkably chaste and simple. It does not in the least savor of romance. The Hebrew is very like that of Ezra and parts of the Chronicles; generally pure, but mixed with some words of Persian origin and some of the Chaldaic affinity. In short it is just what one would expect to find in a work of the age to which the book of Esther professes to belong. Library Esther Book 11 Footnotes Some Miscellaneous Matters Respecting the Face of the Land. The Restoration. The Net Broken Esther's Venture Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther. Mordecai and Esther Expositions of Holy Scripture The Irish Articles of Religion. AD 1615. Resources What is the Book of Jasher and should it be in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs there a difference between the book of life and the Lamb's book of life? | GotQuestions.org What is the Book of Giants? | GotQuestions.org Book: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |