Who was Esther in the Bible?
Esther, also known as Hadassah, is a central figure in the Book of Esther in the Old Testament. The Hebrew name “אֶסְתֵּר” (Esther) means “star,” while her other name, “הֲדַסָּה” (Hadassah), means “myrtle.” Esther lived during the time of the Persian Empire, specifically during the Exile and Return of the Jewish people. Her story unfolds in the court of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I), where she rose from obscurity to become the queen of Persia.
Esther’s Background and Rise to Queenship
Esther was an orphan, raised by her cousin Mordecai, a Jew who lived in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire. The story of Esther begins in Esther 2:7, where she is described as “lovely in form and features.” Her beauty and demeanor brought her to the attention of the king’s officials when King Ahasuerus sought a new queen after deposing Queen Vashti.
Esther’s rise to queenship was marked by divine providence, as she was chosen from among many to be the new queen. Despite being in a foreign land and initially hiding her Jewish identity at Mordecai’s instruction, Esther found favor with the king and became a pivotal figure in the deliverance of the Jewish people.
The Plot Against the Jews and Esther’s Courage
The central conflict in the Book of Esther involves a plot by Haman, an official in the Persian court, to annihilate the Jews. Haman’s hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refused to bow to him, led him to convince the king to issue a decree for the destruction of all Jews in the kingdom (Esther 3:13). The edict was sealed with the king’s ring, making it irrevocable under Persian law.
Mordecai informed Esther of the plot and urged her to intervene, saying, “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Despite the risks, as approaching the king without being summoned could result in death, Esther courageously decided to act. She asked the Jews to fast and pray for three days before she approached the king.
Esther’s bravery and strategic planning are evident when she invited the king and Haman to a banquet. It was during the second banquet that she revealed her Jewish identity and exposed Haman’s plot, leading to Haman’s execution and the issuing of a new decree that allowed the Jews to defend themselves (Esther 7-8).
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Esther’s story offers profound lessons for modern Christians. Her courage and willingness to stand up for her people, even at great personal risk, exemplify the importance of bravery in the face of injustice. Esther’s actions remind believers that they may find themselves in positions where they can make a significant difference, and they should act with courage and integrity.
Furthermore, Esther’s story highlights the power of fasting and prayer in seeking God’s intervention. Although the Book of Esther does not explicitly mention God, His providence is evident throughout the narrative. This encourages Christians to trust in God’s unseen hand and to seek His guidance through prayer and fasting in times of crisis.
Connection to a Loving God
The story of Esther is a testament to God’s providential care and His faithfulness to His people, even when He seems hidden. God’s sovereignty is evident in the seemingly coincidental events that lead to the preservation of the Jewish people. For instance, the timing of the king’s sleepless night, which led him to read the chronicles and discover Mordecai’s earlier loyalty (Esther 6), showcases God’s timing and orchestration.
This narrative reassures believers of God’s unceasing presence and care. Even when God is not explicitly mentioned, His influence is palpable, guiding events and decisions. This reflects a loving God who watches over His people, providing protection and deliverance in ways that may not always be immediately visible.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Esther’s story also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance found in Jesus Christ. Just as Esther stood as an advocate for her people, risking her life to secure their salvation, Jesus stands as the ultimate mediator and savior. His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of deliverance, not just for a single nation, but for all humanity.
The story of Esther also highlights themes of redemption and reversal, where the intended harm by Haman turns into triumph for the Jews. This mirrors the work of Christ, where what seemed to be the ultimate defeat—His crucifixion—became the greatest victory through His resurrection.
Conclusion
Esther, a remarkable woman in biblical history, exemplifies courage, faith, and the providential care of God. Her story teaches modern Christians valuable lessons about standing up for righteousness, trusting in God’s unseen hand, and the power of prayer and fasting. Esther’s life and actions continue to inspire believers to act with bravery and faithfulness, trusting that God is always at work, even when He seems silent. Her story is a timeless reminder of God’s sovereignty and His plans for redemption, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the true Savior of the world.