The Book of Esther
God's hidden hand preserves his people through the courage of Esther.
- Author
- Unknown
- Date
- Probably c. 460–350 BC
- Chapters
- 10
- Genre
- History
Summary
Esther is set in the Persian capital, Susa. A Jewish orphan named Esther becomes queen, while her cousin Mordecai uncovers a plot against the king.
When the official Haman schemes to destroy all the Jews, Mordecai urges Esther to act: "Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" Risking her life, Esther intercedes with the king, and the Jews are delivered. Though God is never named, his providence is evident throughout, and the feast of Purim celebrates this rescue.
Outline
- Chapters 1–2 — Esther becomes queen
- Chapters 3–5 — Haman's plot
- Chapters 6–10 — Deliverance and the feast of Purim
Key Themes
Key Verses
Start reading EstherFor 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?”