Esther

Esther was a young Jewish woman who became queen of the Persian Empire around 480 BCE. She lived in Susa, one of the royal cities of King Ahasuerus, often identified as Xerxes I. Esther had lost her parents, so her older cousin Mordecai raised her as his own daughter. When the king searched for a new queen, Esther was brought to the palace and chosen. At Mordecai’s advice, she did not tell anyone at first that she was Jewish.

Esther’s story is found in the Book of Esther, especially chapters 2 through 9. A powerful official named Haman hated Mordecai because Mordecai would not bow before him. Haman persuaded the king to issue a law calling for all the Jewish people in the empire to be killed on a certain day. Mordecai urged Esther to speak to the king, although entering the king’s presence without an invitation could lead to death. Esther asked the Jews in Susa to fast for three days. Then she put on her royal robes and went to the king. He welcomed her by holding out his golden scepter. Esther carefully invited the king and Haman to two banquets. At the second banquet, she revealed that she was Jewish and explained Haman’s evil plan. The king ordered Haman to be put to death on the tall wooden structure Haman had prepared for Mordecai. Esther and Mordecai then received authority to send a new decree allowing the Jews to gather and defend themselves.

Esther’s courage reminds children that doing what is right may feel frightening, but bravery means acting faithfully even when we are afraid. Her story also shows the value of wise advice, careful timing, prayerful fasting, and speaking up for people in danger. Although the Book of Esther does not directly mention God’s name, Christians can see God’s quiet care throughout its surprising reversals. The events took place mainly in the royal citadel of Susa, in what is now Iran. After the Jewish people were delivered, they began celebrating the yearly festival of Purim, as described in Esther 9. Jewish families still observe Purim today by remembering this rescue with joy and generosity.