Esther

The story of Esther is one of the most compelling narratives in the Old Testament. It tells the story of a Jewish girl who becomes the queen of Persia and uses her position of power to save her people from genocide. Esther’s bravery, intelligence, and faith have made her a role model for women throughout the ages.

Esther’s story begins in Persia during the reign of King Xerxes. The king had banished his queen, Vashti, for disobeying him, and was searching for a new bride. Esther, a Jewish orphan, was one of the women brought to the king’s court as a potential candidate. Esther was beautiful, intelligent, and humble, and she quickly won the favor of the king and his court.

However, Esther hid her Jewish identity from the king and his advisors. Her adoptive father, Mordecai, had warned her against revealing her heritage because of the anti-Semitic sentiment prevalent in Persia at that time. Mordecai was a Jewish leader in Persia and had earned the wrath of the king’s advisor, Haman.

Haman was a vile man who hated Jews and plotted their destruction. He convinced the king to issue an edict authorizing the extermination of all Jews throughout Persia. Mordecai learned of the plot and urged Esther to use her power as queen to save her people. Esther was initially hesitant to act because revealing her Jewish identity could put her own life in peril. But Mordecai encouraged her, saying, “Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

So Esther devised a plan. She invited the king and Haman to a banquet, and on the second day she revealed her Jewish identity and begged the king to intervene on behalf of her people. The king was furious that Haman had deceived him and ordered his execution. He also issued a decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies.

The Jews of Persia were saved from extermination, and Esther’s bravery and cunning became legendary. The holiday of Purim celebrates the deliverance of the Jews from Haman’s plot, and Esther is revered as a heroine.

What can we learn from Esther’s story? One lesson is the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous. Esther risked her life to save her people, and her courageous act changed the course of history. We can also learn the value of humility. Esther did not seek power, but when she was given it, she used it for good. She listened to the advice of her elders, including her adoptive father, and trusted in God’s providence.

Esther’s story is a reminder of the power of faith and of the good that can come from using our talents and resources to serve others. Esther’s faith in God gave her the courage to act, and her skills as a queen enabled her to save her people. We may not all be queens or kings, but we can all make a difference in our own way. We can use our talents to serve others, to stand up for the oppressed, and to make the world a better place.

In conclusion, Esther’s story is a timeless tale of bravery, faith, and heroism. Her example has inspired generations of women to be strong, independent, and compassionate. As we reflect on Esther’s life, let us strive to emulate her courage and her commitment to justice. May we all be inspired to use our own gifts to make a difference in the world.