Topical Encyclopedia The concept of beauty in the Bible is often intertwined with themes of divine favor, purpose, and influence. One of the most prominent figures associated with beauty in the Scriptures is Esther, a Jewish woman who became queen of Persia. Her account is found in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Old Testament.Esther's Beauty and Favor Esther, originally named Hadassah, was an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Her beauty is first noted when King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia seeks a new queen after deposing Queen Vashti. Esther 2:7 describes her as "lovely in form and features," which led to her being taken to the king's palace as a candidate for queen. Her physical beauty, however, was not the sole reason for her favor. Esther 2:9 states, "Now the young woman pleased him and gained his favor. So he quickly provided her with beauty treatments and special food." Divine Purpose and Influence Esther's beauty and subsequent rise to queenship were part of a divine plan to save the Jewish people from annihilation. Her position allowed her to influence the king and ultimately thwart the plans of Haman, the king's advisor who sought to destroy the Jews. Esther's courage and wisdom are highlighted in Esther 4:14, where Mordecai tells her, "And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Inner Beauty and Character While Esther's physical beauty is acknowledged, her inner beauty and character are equally emphasized. Her humility, obedience, and bravery are evident throughout the narrative. Esther 4:16 reveals her willingness to risk her life for her people, as she declares, "If I perish, I perish." This inner strength and commitment to her people underscore the biblical theme that true beauty encompasses more than outward appearance. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of ancient Persia, beauty was often associated with power and influence. Esther's account illustrates how God can use these attributes for His purposes. Her beauty, combined with her faith and courage, positioned her to play a crucial role in the preservation of the Jewish people. Legacy of Beauty and Faith Esther's legacy is one of beauty intertwined with faith and divine purpose. Her account continues to inspire believers to recognize that beauty, when coupled with godly character and obedience, can be a powerful tool in fulfilling God's plans. The Book of Esther remains a testament to how God can use individuals, regardless of their background, to achieve His divine purposes. Nave's Topical Index Esther 2:7And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter. Nave's Topical Index Library At this Period of Time we Think Esther and Judith Lived... Hebrew Captives; Or, Mordecai and Esther. The Net Broken Esther's Venture The Wall Rebuilt. Esther, the Queen. Queen Esther's Love for Her People Concerning Esther and Mordecai and Haman; and How in the Reign of ... On the Worthy Praise of the Pure Queen of Heaven. The Objects of Prayer Resources Should Christians care about physical appearance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about art? | GotQuestions.org What is axiology? | GotQuestions.org Beauty: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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