Sunday, March 30 – Esther 1, 2 – Additional Reading, Prophets and Kings, Chapter 49, “In the Days of Queen Esther”

1. Why was Queen Vashti deposed? Esther 1:10-12

2. How was Esther chosen as the new queen of Persia? Esther 2:2-4, 8-9, 16-17

3. What advice did Mordecai give Esther regarding her identity? Esther 2:10

4. How did Mordecai save King Ahasuerus’ life? Esther 2:21-23

The Book of Esther is a historical account demonstrating God’s providence over His people. Although its author is unknown, it is believed to have been written by Mordecai or Ezra.

Chapter 1 begins with a grand feast in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire. The event displayed the king’s wealth and power, reflecting the opulence of Persia. Archaeological excavations in Susa have confirmed the historical accuracy of the Book of Esther.

During the celebration, King Ahasuerus, under the influence of wine, commands Queen Vashti to present herself before his guests. She refuses, leading to her removal. The king’s advisors feared that her defiance would encourage women throughout the empire to disobey their husbands, and they recommended that she be replaced.

The Matthew Henry Commentary highlights how Ahasuerus’ pride and foolishness led to this situation. His counselors exploited his lack of self-control to enforce a policy of dominance over women. However, God was already preparing the way for Esther in this crisis.

Later, the king’s advisors propose a contest of young virgins to select a new queen. Esther, a young Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is brought to the palace. Her beauty and character win the king’s favor, and he crowns her as queen.

Although the Jews had freedom in Persia, Esther concealed her identity at Mordecai’s request. The Full Life Study Bible explains that there are times when it is wise to remain silent until one has gained the right to be heard.

Chapter 2 also recounts how Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king. He informs Esther, who warns the king in Mordecai’s name. The conspirators are executed, and the event is recorded in the royal chronicles, although Mordecai was not rewarded then.

The Matthew Henry Commentary emphasizes that good deeds may not be immediately rewarded, but God remembers them and rewards them at the right moment.

The grand celebration in Chapter 1 was likely a war council where the invasion of Greece was planned. Ahasuerus displayed his power and wealth before governors and military leaders.

The banquet lasted 180 days, followed by a 7-day feast for the people of Susa. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, Xerxes (Ahasuerus) commanded a vast army, but his pride led to failure in Greece.

Excavations in Susa have revealed details of the royal palace, confirming the accuracy of Esther’s book. The throne hall (apadana), where Esther later appeared before the king, was an imposing structure with 36 marble columns and gold decorations.

The story of Esther teaches us that God works in history and our lives. Even when events seem unfavorable, God is orchestrating every detail.
Just as Esther was placed in the palace at the right time, we can trust that God has a purpose for every stage of our lives.

May the Lord bless you.