The Story of Esther: Courage and Providence

The tale of Esther is a profound narrative of faith, courage, and divine providence. It tells of an ordinary Jewish woman who rose to become a queen and saved her people from annihilation, demonstrating that God can use anyone, regardless of their circumstances, to accomplish His purposes.

A New Queen is Chosen

King Xerxes of Persia ruled over an expansive empire, but his heart was still heavy after banishing his former queen, Vashti, for disobedience. To find a new queen, his ministers proposed a royal search for the most beautiful young women in the land. Among them was Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai in exile.

Esther’s grace, beauty, and humility won the favor of everyone, including the chief palace official, who ensured she received special care. Mordecai, ever watchful of his cousin, advised her not to reveal her Jewish heritage.

When Esther was presented to Xerxes, the king was captivated and declared her queen. But life in the palace was not without danger. One day, Mordecai uncovered a plot to assassinate the king. He relayed the information to Esther, who informed Xerxes, ensuring the conspirators were caught and executed. The event was recorded in the royal chronicles but forgotten, for the time being. (Esther 1–2)

A Plot Against the Jews

Haman, the king’s newly appointed prime minister, reveled in his power and demanded that all bow before him. Mordecai, however, refused, standing firm in his faith. When asked why, he boldly declared, “I am a Jew; I will bow only to God.”

Haman’s rage knew no bounds. He resolved not only to punish Mordecai but to annihilate the entire Jewish people. Manipulating the king, Haman secured a decree to kill all Jews across the empire on a date determined by casting lots (purim). Mordecai and the Jewish community mourned, fasting and praying for deliverance. Mordecai urged Esther to intervene, saying, “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 3–4)

The Queen’s Risky Request

Esther, though terrified, resolved to act. She instructed Mordecai and the Jews to fast and pray for three days while she did the same. On the third day, she donned her royal robes and approached the king uninvited, a bold move punishable by death unless the king extended his scepter.

To her relief, Xerxes welcomed her graciously. When he asked her request, Esther invited him and Haman to a banquet. That evening, she delayed revealing her true purpose and instead invited them to a second banquet the next night.

Meanwhile, Haman, still infuriated by Mordecai’s defiance, prepared a gallows to hang him. But that night, the king was unable to sleep and asked for the royal chronicles to be read to him. He discovered Mordecai’s earlier act of loyalty in foiling the assassination plot. Realizing Mordecai had not been rewarded, Xerxes sought to rectify this. (Esther 5–6)

Reversal of Fortunes

The next day, Haman arrived at the palace, intending to request Mordecai’s execution. Before he could speak, the king asked him how he should honor someone the king delighted in. Believing the honor was meant for himself, Haman suggested a grand public display: dressing the man in royal robes and parading him on the king’s horse through the city.

To Haman’s horror, the king commanded him to do exactly that—for Mordecai. Humiliated, Haman obeyed, leading Mordecai through the streets while proclaiming his honor. Returning home in shame, his wife ominously warned him, “If Mordecai is of Jewish descent, you cannot stand against him.” (Esther 6:1–13)

A Day to Remember

At the second banquet, Esther finally revealed her petition. With courage, she said, “If I have found favor in your eyes, spare my life and the lives of my people. We have been sold to destruction.” The king, enraged, demanded to know who was behind the plot. Esther pointed to Haman.

Terrified, Haman pleaded for his life, but the king, misinterpreting his actions as an assault on Esther, ordered his execution. Ironically, Haman was hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai.

Mordecai was then elevated to Haman’s position, and Esther pleaded with the king to save the Jews. Though the king could not revoke the original decree, he allowed Esther and Mordecai to issue a new one, permitting the Jews to defend themselves. (Esther 7–8)

Victory and the Festival of Purim

When the appointed day of Haman’s decree arrived, the Jews, empowered by the new edict, successfully defended themselves. The day intended for their destruction became a day of triumph. Mordecai declared an annual celebration to remember God’s deliverance, naming it the Festival of Purim, after the lots Haman cast.

The story of Esther concludes with Mordecai’s rise to prominence and the Jewish community’s survival, a testament to God’s providence and the courage of those who trust Him. (Esther 9–10)

Moral of the Tale

The story of Esther reminds us of God’s sovereign hand at work, even in the shadows.

1. Courage in the Face of Fear: Esther’s bravery in risking her life for her people exemplifies the power of faith and determination.
2. Divine Providence: Though God is not explicitly mentioned, His guidance and protection are evident throughout the story.
3. Standing for What is Right: Mordecai’s refusal to bow and Esther’s boldness to speak out show the importance of remaining steadfast in faith.
4. God’s Justice: Haman’s downfall demonstrates that evil schemes cannot prevail against God’s plans.

Esther’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter how dire the circumstances, God can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things for His glory and the good of His people.