Esther: [ /eh·str/ ] noun --- A Persian name meaning “the star.” Her Hebrew name is Hadassah which means “myrtle,” like an evergreen; myrtle symbolizes peace, joy, generosity, and justice.
The Book of Esther does not specifically name its author. The most popular traditions are Ezra or Nehemiah (who would have been familiar with Persian customs). The Book of Esther was likely written between 460 and 400 B.C., during the reign of Xerxes’ son Artaxerxes.
OVERVIEW:
The book of Esther was written to display the providence of God, especially regarding His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther records the institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its perpetual observation. The Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of the Jewish nation brought about by God through Esther.
The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections. Chapters 1:1-2:18 – Esther replaces Vashti; 2:19-7:10 – Mordecai overcomes Haman; 8:1-10:3 – Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them. The noble Esther risked her own death as she realized what was at stake. She willingly did what could have been a deadly maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. She proved a wise and most worthy opponent, all the while remaining humble and respectful of the position of her husband-king. The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very much under the control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of the people at heart. At the center of this story is the ongoing division between the Jews and the Amalekites, which was recorded to have begun in the Book of Exodus. Haman’s goal is the final effort recorded in the Old Testament period of the complete eradication of the Jews. His plans eventually end up with his own demise, and the elevation of his enemy Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews.
Feasting is a major theme of this book: there are seven recorded banquets (Esther 1:3; 2:18; 5:4–5; 7:1–2; 8:17; and 9:17–22), and many of the events were planned, plotted, or exposed at these banquets. Although the name of God is never mentioned in this book, it is apparent that the Jews of Susa sought His intervention when they fasted for three days (Esther 4:16). Although the law allowing their destruction was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable, the way was cleared for their prayers to be answered. Esther risked her life by going not once uninvited before the king but twice, (Esther 5:1–2; 8:3). She was not content with the destruction of Haman; she was intent on saving her people. The institution of the Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. God’s chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther.
SO WHAT?
Life can be hard. Difficult times happen, and pain cannot be avoided. When life does not make sense, do you turn to God or away from Him? Let the book of Esther encourage you that God is always present. The Book of Esther shows the choice we make between seeing the hand of God in our circumstances in life and seeing things as merely coincidence. God is the sovereign Ruler of the universe and we can be assured that His plans will not be moved by the actions of mere evil men. Although His name is not mentioned in the book, His providential care for His people, both individuals and the nation, is evident throughout. Through the example of Mordecai and Esther, the silent love language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirits is shown in this book. Jesus called us “friends” (John 15:15), and the Spirit is our “Helper” (John 14:26). Trust and obey, as Esther did. And watch God silently weave all events for His glory and for our good as His people.
Next month, we will look at the book of Job. This text displays and helps us to understand the following: Satan cannot bring financial and physical destruction upon us unless it is by God’s permission. God has power over what Satan can and cannot do. It is beyond our human ability to understand the "why’s" behind all the suffering in the world. The wicked will receive their just dues. Suffering may sometimes be allowed in our lives to purify, test, teach, or strengthen the soul. God remains enough, and He deserves and requests our love and praise in all circumstances of life.
I would love to hear from you, pray for you, and encourage you. Reach out to me via email: Colin@nlcwanamingo.org or by phone: 507-824-3019.
