Bible Study of Esther: Lessons and Summary

Verses to read

• “For if you remain silent at this time, then relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Who knows if you haven’t come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

  Esther 4:14

• “In every province, and in every city, wherever the king’s commandment and his decree came, the Jews had gladness and joy, a feast and a good day.”

  Esther 8:17

Who Was Queen Esther?

Esther was a Jewish orphan who lived with her cousin, Mordecai. Her Hebrew name was Hadassah. She lived in a time when the King of Persia was looking for a new queen. Esther was chosen because she was very beautiful and kind.

Esther did not tell anyone at the palace that she was Jewish at first. She listened to the advice of her cousin and stayed humble. This helped her gain the favor of the king and the people around her.

What Was Haman's Evil Plan?

Haman was a high official who worked for the king. He was very proud. He wanted everyone to bow down to him. When Esther’s cousin Mordecai refused to bow, Haman got very angry. He decided to destroy all the Jewish people in the land.

Haman tricked the king into signing a law. This law said that on a certain day, people could attack and kill the Jews. It seemed like there was no hope for Esther’s people.

For Such a Time as This

Mordecai sent a message to Esther. He told her she must talk to the king to save their people. This was dangerous because no one could go to the king without being invited. If the king was unhappy, he could have that person killed.

Mordecai told Esther that maybe she became queen for this exact moment. Esther showed great courage. She asked all the Jews to fast, which means they stopped eating to focus on seeking help. Then she went to see the king.

How Did God Save the People?

The king welcomed Esther. She invited the king and Haman to two special dinners. At the second dinner, she told the king about Haman’s plan to kill her and her people. The king was very angry at Haman.

The king could not change the old law, but he made a new law. The new law allowed the Jews to defend themselves. The Jewish people were saved, and Haman was punished for his pride and cruelty.

Common questions

Why is God not mentioned in the Book of Esther?

The author likely left God's name out to show that he is present even when he is hidden. It teaches us to look for God's hand in our daily lives through 'coincidences' and timing.

What is the holiday of Purim?

Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates how God saved his people in the story of Esther. The name comes from the word 'Pur,' which means a lot or a dice, because Haman cast lots to pick a day for the attack.

What can we learn from Mordecai?

Mordecai teaches us to stand up for what is right and to trust God's protection. He was loyal to the king but only gave his worship to God.

Is the story of Esther true?

Yes, Christians and Jews believe Esther is a true historical account. It describes the life of Jews living in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus.