Read the Book of Esther online. Scripture chapters verses with full summary, commentary meaning, and concordances for Bible study. Summary: Esther is the account of a Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and courageously saves her people from annihilation.

Understanding the Context

Through divine providence and her cousin Mordecai’s guidance, Esther exposes the wicked plot of Haman, the king’s advisor. The Book of Esther begins by portraying Esther as beautiful and obedient, though a relatively passive figure. [citation needed] Throughout the story, she evolves into a character who takes a decisive role in her own future and that of her people. [22] The Greek additions to Esther have many explicit references to God, as well as explicit descriptions of the beliefs and emotional states of Esther and Mordecai.

Key Insights

Footnotes Esther 1:1 Hebrew Ahasuerus; here and throughout Esther Esther 1:1 That is, the upper Nile region Esther 1 NIV - Queen Vashti Deposed - This is what - Bible Gateway The story of Esther is often considered a narrative of deliverance, as she played a crucial role in saving the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them. The Book of Esther describes how Esther, originally named Hadassah, becomes queen after winning a beauty contest. Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen (Esther 2:17), though she keeps her identity hidden. Meanwhile, Haman, a powerful official, becomes enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him. Esther is one of only two books of the Bible named after a woman.

Final Thoughts

Through Esther’s resolve to trust in God, she influenced the king and saved her people.