Topical Bible: Adoption: Illustrated: Esther

◄ Adoption: Illustrated: Esther ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Adoption, in biblical terms, refers to the act of taking someone into one's family and treating them as one's own child. This concept is vividly illustrated in the account of Esther, a key figure in the Old Testament, whose life exemplifies the transformative power of adoption.

Biblical Context

The account of Esther is found in the Book of Esther, which is set during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. Esther, originally named Hadassah, was a Jewish orphan living in the Persian Empire. Her parents had died, leaving her in the care of her cousin Mordecai, who adopted her as his own daughter. This act of adoption is pivotal, as it sets the stage for Esther's rise to prominence and her role in the deliverance of the Jewish people.

Scriptural Reference

The Berean Standard Bible provides a clear account of Esther's adoption in Esther 2:7: "And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter, for she had neither father nor mother. The young woman was lovely in form and features, and when her father and mother died, Mordecai took her in as his own daughter."

Significance of Adoption in Esther's Life

1. Identity and Belonging: Through adoption, Esther found a sense of identity and belonging. Mordecai's acceptance and care provided her with a family and a home, which were crucial for her development and well-being. This familial bond was instrumental in shaping her character and faith.

2. Preparation for Purpose: Mordecai's role as an adoptive father was not merely to provide for Esther's physical needs but also to prepare her for a greater purpose. Under his guidance, Esther learned the values and traditions of her Jewish heritage, which later influenced her decisions as queen.

3. Courage and Influence: Esther's adoption positioned her uniquely to influence the course of history. As queen, she was able to use her influence to save her people from destruction. Her courage to approach King Xerxes, despite the risk to her own life, was a testament to the strength and confidence instilled in her by Mordecai's upbringing.

4. Spiritual Legacy: The account of Esther highlights the spiritual legacy that can result from adoption. Mordecai's faith and wisdom were imparted to Esther, enabling her to act with discernment and bravery. Her account continues to inspire believers to trust in God's providence and to act with courage in the face of adversity.

Theological Implications

The adoption of Esther by Mordecai serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual adoption of believers into the family of God. Just as Esther was chosen and loved by Mordecai, Christians believe they are chosen and loved by God, who adopts them as His children through faith in Jesus Christ. This spiritual adoption grants believers a new identity, a sense of belonging, and an inheritance in the kingdom of God.

In summary, the adoption of Esther by Mordecai is a profound example of how adoption can change the course of an individual's life and, by extension, the lives of many others. It underscores the importance of family, faith, and the divine purpose that can emerge from acts of love and acceptance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Esther 2:7
And 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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close.
... Proverbs, Job, Canticles, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra ... time; and are fitly
illustrated by the ... its supposed Solomonic authorship, determined its adoption. ...
/.../davidson/the canon of the bible/chapter ii the old testament.htm

Formula Concordi??.
... Sicut scriptum Esther 1 1 Corinthians 2:14): 'Animalis homo non percipit ea, qu??
sunt Spiritus; stultitia illi est, et non potest intelligere, quia de ...
/.../schaff/the creeds of the evangelical protestant churches/formula concordiae.htm