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The story of Queen Esther, found in the Old Testament of the Bible, is a tale of bravery, faith, and divine providence. Set during the Persian Empire’s reign, it showcases how one woman’s courage, guided by her faith in God, saved her people from annihilation. Through a series of events orchestrated by divine intervention, she rises from obscurity to become a queen and ultimately plays a pivotal role in delivering her people from impending doom.
Background and Context
The narrative unfolds during the reign of King Ahasuerus, commonly identified as Xerxes I, who ruled over the vast Persian Empire from his capital in Susa. The story begins with the king’s grandiose banquet, where he displays his wealth and power. During this lavish affair, Queen Vashti, defying the king’s orders, refuses to appear before his guests, leading to her dismissal.
Esther’s Ascendancy
Amidst the ensuing search for a new queen, Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, captures the king’s attention with her beauty and grace. Unbeknownst to the king, Esther conceals her Jewish heritage as instructed by Mordecai. She wins the favor of Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the king’s harem, who provides her with special treatment and adornments.
Did Esther Have an Intimate Relationship with the King Before Marriage?
Did Esther have intimate with the king and this was perfectly acceptable to the Jewish faith since she was already part of the king’s Harem. Any girl that entered the Harem would NEVER be for any other man. And even if she was not selected as a queen, she will continue to be part of the king’s Harem till the end of her life. Thus, she would not know any other man but the king.
Esther’s coronation as queen marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life, yet her true purpose is yet to be revealed. Meanwhile, Mordecai, positioned at the king’s gate, uncovers a plot to assassinate the king, which he reports to Esther, who informs the king in Mordecai’s name. The conspiracy thwarted, Mordecai’s loyalty is recorded in the chronicles of the kingdom.
Haman’s Plot
However, the tranquil atmosphere is disrupted with the introduction of Haman, an influential official in the king’s court. Haman, consumed by pride and hatred, devises a scheme to annihilate the Jewish population throughout the Persian Empire. Manipulating the king’s trust, Haman convinces Ahasuerus to issue a decree for the destruction of the Jews on a designated day.
Mordecai’s Call to Action
Upon learning of the decree, Mordecai, torn by grief and despair, urges Esther to intercede on behalf of her people before the king. Initially hesitant due to the dangers associated with approaching the king uninvited, Esther is reminded by Mordecai that her royal position does not exempt her from the fate of her people. With faith and resolve, Esther accepts the challenge, acknowledging the potential consequences.
Esther’s Courageous Act
Gathering her courage, Esther embarks on a fast, along with her maids and the Jewish community, seeking divine guidance and strength for the perilous task ahead. After three days of fasting, Esther adorns herself in royal attire and approaches the king’s inner court, risking her life to plead for mercy for her people.
Divine Intervention
In a demonstration of divine providence, the king extends his golden scepter to Esther, granting her permission to speak. Instead of immediately presenting her petition, Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. Intrigued, the king accepts the invitation, and at the banquet, Esther invites them to another banquet the following day.
During the interlude between banquets, Haman’s arrogance reaches new heights as he constructs a gallows to hang Mordecai, further fueling his animosity toward the Jews. However, unbeknownst to him, his downfall is already set in motion.
Revelation and Redemption
At the second banquet, Esther reveals her Jewish heritage and exposes Haman’s sinister plot to annihilate her people. Enraged by Haman’s deceit and treachery, the king orders his immediate execution on the very gallows intended for Mordecai. The decree to annihilate the Jews is reversed, and Mordecai is appointed as Haman’s successor, wielding authority to rescind the edict of destruction.
The Jewish people rejoice and celebrate their deliverance from annihilation, establishing the festival of Purim to commemorate their salvation. Esther’s unwavering faith, coupled with her courage and strategic wisdom, ensured the preservation of her people against all odds.
Conclusion
The story of Queen Esther stands as a timeless testament to the power of faith, courage, and divine providence. Through her remarkable journey from orphan to queen, she exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her unwavering commitment to her people, coupled with divine intervention, culminates in their deliverance from impending doom. Her story continues to inspire generations, serving as a poignant reminder that even in the darkest of times, faith and courage can illuminate the path to redemption and salvation.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team