◄ Esther 2 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Seeking Vashti’s Successor 1Some time later, when the anger of King Xerxes had subsided, he remembered Vashti and what she had done, and what had been decreed against her. 2Then the king’s attendants proposed, “Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king, 3and let the king appoint commissioners in each province of his kingdom to assemble all the beautiful young women into the harem at the citadel of Susa. Let them be placed under the care of Hegai, the king’s eunuch in charge of the women, and let them be given beauty treatments. 4Then let the young woman who pleases the king become queen in place of Vashti.” This suggestion pleased the king, and he acted accordingly. Esther Finds Favor 5Now there was at the citadel of Susa a Jewish man from the tribe of Benjamin named Mordecai son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish. 6He had been carried into exile from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon among those taken captive with Jeconiaha king of Judah. 7And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, because she did not have a father or mother. The young woman was lovely in form and appearance, and when her father and mother had died, Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter. 8When the king’s command and edict had been proclaimed, many young women gathered at the citadel of Susa under the care of Hegai. Esther was also taken to the palace and placed under the care of Hegai, the custodian of the women. 9And the young woman pleased him and obtained his favor, so he quickly provided her with beauty treatments and the special diet. He assigned to her seven select maidservants from the palace and transferred her with them to the best place in the harem. 10Esther did not reveal her people or her lineage, because Mordecai had instructed her not to do so. 11And every day Mordecai would walk back and forth in front of the court of the harem to learn about Esther’s welfare and what was happening to her. 12In the twelve months before her turn to go to King Xerxes, the harem regulation required each young woman to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months, and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. 13When the young woman would go to the king, she was given whatever she requested to take with her from the harem to the king’s palace. 14She would go there in the evening, and in the morning she would return to a second haremb under the care of Shaashgaz, the king’s eunuch in charge of the concubines. She would not return to the king unless he delighted in her and summoned her by name. 15Now Esther was the daughter of Abihail, the uncle from whom Mordecai had adopted her as his own daughter. And when it was her turn to go to the king, she did not ask for anything except what Hegai, the king’s trusted official in charge of the harem, had advised. And Esther found favor in the eyes of everyone who saw her. 16She was taken to King Xerxes in the royal palace in the tenth month, the month of Tebeth,c in the seventh year of his reign. Esther Becomes Queen 17And the king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she found grace and favor in his sight more than all of the other virgins. So he placed the royal crown upon her head and made her queen in place of Vashti. 18Then the king held a great banquet, Esther’s banquet, for all his officials and servants. He proclaimed a tax holiday in the provinces and gave gifts worthy of the king’s bounty. 19When the virgins were assembled a second time, Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate.d 20Esther still had not revealed her lineage or her people, just as Mordecai had instructed. She obeyed Mordecai’s command, as she had done under his care. Mordecai Uncovers a Conspiracy 21In those days, while Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate, Bigthane and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs who guarded the entrance, grew angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. 22When Mordecai learned of the plot, he reported it to Queen Esther, and she informed the king on Mordecai’s behalf. 23After the report had been investigated and verified, both officials were hanged on the gallows. And all this was recorded in the Book of the Chroniclesf in the presence of the king. Footnotes: 6 a Jeconiah is a variant of Jehoiachin; see 2 Kings 24:12. 14 b Or to another part of the harem 16 c Tebeth is the tenth month of the Hebrew lunar calendar, usually occurring within the months of December and January. 19 d Or Mordecai had become a palace official 21 e Bigthan is a variant of Bigthana; see Esther 6:2. 23 f Or the Book of the Annals or the Book of the Historical Events Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Esther 2 Summary Seeking Vashti's Successor Verses 1–4 – A Royal Vacancy and a Search Decreed After the anger of King Ahasuerus cools, he remembers Vashti and the irreversible law that removed her. Counselors propose a realm-wide beauty search. Young virgins will be gathered, given beauty treatments, and the one who pleases the king will become queen. A royal edict is issued, and officials are dispatched. Verses 5–7 – Introducing Mordecai and Esther In Susa lives Mordecai, a Benjaminite and descendant of those exiled with Jeconiah. He is guardian to his orphaned cousin Hadassah—Esther—“a lovely figure and beautiful.” Both the Jewish identity of the pair and their ancestry are noted. Verses 8–11 – Esther Taken into the Palace Esther is swept into the harem. She gains favor with Hegai, keeper of the women, who accelerates her treatments and assigns seven chosen maids. Mordecai daily walks near the court to learn of her welfare. Esther keeps silent about her people just as Mordecai instructed. Verses 12–14 – Preparation and Presentation Each candidate undergoes twelve months of cosmetic regimen—six with myrrh oil, six with spices. When a woman’s night with the king arrives, she may take anything from the harem, but afterward she moves to the second harem under Shaashgaz and sees the king again only if summoned. Verses 15–18 – Esther Crowned Queen When Esther’s turn comes, she requests nothing beyond what Hegai advises. “Esther found favor with everyone who saw her”. The king loves Esther more than all others and sets the royal crown on her head. A lavish feast, remission of taxes, and royal gifts follow in celebration. Verses 19–23 – Mordecai Uncovers a Plot During a later gathering of virgins, Mordecai sits at the gate and discovers a conspiracy by Bigthan and Teresh to assassinate the king. He alerts Esther, who credits Mordecai before the king. The deed is investigated, the conspirators are impaled, and the event is recorded in the royal chronicles. Esther 2 unveils the beginning of a beautiful but complex narrative. King Xerxes, seeking a new queen after dethroning Vashti, initiates a royal decree to gather beautiful young virgins from the kingdom for preparation to be presented to the king. Amidst the chosen is a young Jewish woman named Esther, whose life takes a dramatic turn as she moves from obscurity to the palace. The chapter depicts God's providence, even in seemingly dire circumstances, and the rise of Esther, the orphaned Jewish girl who becomes the queen of Persia. Historical Setting and Political Backdrop • Reign of Ahasuerus (Xerxes I), 486–465 BC. The banquet in chapter 1 fits the pause between his accession and the Greco-Persian wars. • Persian law once sealed with the king’s signet could not be revoked (1:19; cf. Daniel 6:8). This explains why Vashti’s removal and later Haman’s decree must be countered indirectly. • Royal harems were common among Near-Eastern monarchs, serving both political alliances and personal pleasure. Greek historian Herodotus also comments on Xerxes’ sizable harem following his Greek campaign. Cultural and Social Customs in the Persian Court • Twelve-month beautification was believed to ensure both physical allure and freedom from disease. Myrrh was a fragrance and mild antiseptic; spices masked odor and symbolized luxury. • A eunuch such as Hegai supervised the women to guarantee the king’s exclusive rights to them. • The “second harem” kept former hopefuls in comfortable but permanent seclusion; they could not remarry, underscoring the high stakes of Esther’s night with the king. Character Profiles: Esther and Mordecai Esther – Jewish name Hadassah (“myrtle”), symbol of righteousness and restoration (Isaiah 41:19). – Orphan raised by a cousin, thrust into a pagan palace yet showing respect, humility, and courage. – Chooses silence about her ethnicity, illustrating both wisdom and risk. Mordecai – Descendant of Kish, Saul’s family line (2 Samuel 9:1). His eventual clash with Haman (a descendant of Agag) revives the ancient Saul-Agag rivalry (1 Samuel 15). – Stationed “at the king’s gate,” a term for an administrative post, giving him access to court affairs. – Represents alert, godly citizenship: loyal to the king yet faithful to his people. Divine Providence Behind Human Events God’s name is never mentioned, yet His hand is evident: 1. Vashti’s removal creates a vacancy. 2. Esther’s capture, favor, and coronation position her for future intercession. 3. Mordecai “happens” to overhear a plot, placing his name in royal chronicles that will later prompt Ahasuerus’s insomnia (6:1). Romans 8:28 echoes the message: “God works all things together for good to those who love Him.” Moral and Spiritual Themes • Human responsibility within divine sovereignty: Esther must act, yet outcomes rest with God. • Hidden identity vs. public witness: the tension of living faithfully in a hostile culture. • Integrity in secular service: Mordecai protects a Gentile king, modeling Jeremiah 29:7, “Seek the welfare of the city.” Connections to Other Scriptures – Joseph’s rise in Egypt (Genesis 41) parallels Esther’s ascent—foreign court, divine favor, salvation of God’s people. – Daniel’s resolve in Babylon mirrors Esther’s measured adaptation (Daniel 1:8). – 1 Peter 2:12 encourages honorable conduct among the nations so that pagans may “glorify God.” – Revelation 19:7–8 depicts the Bride’s preparation; Esther’s beautification prefigures the Church’s sanctification. Archaeological and Chronological Notes • The palace at Susa (Shushan) has been excavated; foundations of the Apadana hall match descriptions of throne rooms capable of hosting large banquets. • Lists of Persian officials include names similar to Bigtha and Teresh, validating onomastic accuracy. • Cosmetics jars with myrrh residues were found in Persian strata, confirming the historicity of lengthy beauty treatments. Significance of Purity and Preparation Though the harem context was secular, the pattern of preparation followed by presentation speaks spiritually of: – Inner readiness (myrrh symbolizing purification) and outer testimony (spices portraying fragrance of good works). – Jesus’ parable of the wise virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) calls believers to be watchful, prepared for the Bridegroom. Echoes of the Gospel • Esther’s willingness to risk all foreshadows Christ’s sacrifice. • Her substitutionary role—standing before the king on behalf of her people—anticipates the Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). • The favor she receives (“grace” in many translations) hints at unmerited acceptance granted to sinners through Jesus (Ephesians 2:8). Practical Applications for Today • God can use ordinary believers in unlikely places; no setting is too secular for His purpose. • Faithfulness in small acts—Mordecai’s daily walks, Esther’s courtesy—sets the stage for larger deliverance. • Discernment over when to speak and when to remain silent is vital for Christian witness in modern workplaces. • Courage grows through incremental obedience; Esther’s earlier compliance with Mordecai enables her later boldness before the king. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This verse reinforces the theme of God's providence in Esther's story. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. This passage encourages us to trust in God's guidance, as Esther and Mordecai did. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. This verse reminds us of our identity and purpose in God's kingdom. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in Unlikely Circumstances Esther 2:17 states, And the king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen in place of Vashti. Despite the seemingly secular setting, God's hand is evident in Esther's rise to queenship. The Role of Preparation and Obedience Esther underwent a year of beauty treatments before meeting the king (Esther 2:12). This preparation period highlights the importance of being ready for the roles God calls us to, as well as the value of obedience and patience. Mordecai's Wisdom and Loyalty Mordecai's actions in Esther 2:21-23, where he uncovers a plot against the king, demonstrate his loyalty and wisdom. His integrity sets a foundation for future events that will be crucial for the Jewish people's survival. God's Use of Ordinary People Esther was an orphaned Jewish girl living in exile, yet God chose her for a significant purpose. This reminds us that God often uses ordinary people to accomplish His extraordinary plans. Practical Applications Trust in God's Timing Just as Esther's rise to queenship was perfectly timed, we should trust that God's timing in our lives is perfect, even when we cannot see the full picture. Be Prepared for God's Call Like Esther, we should be diligent in preparing ourselves spiritually and practically for the opportunities God may present to us. Act with Integrity Mordecai's example encourages us to act with integrity and loyalty, knowing that our actions can have far-reaching consequences. Embrace Your Identity in Christ Esther's account encourages us to embrace our identity and purpose in Christ, understanding that God can use us, regardless of our background or circumstances. People 1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) King of Persia, who reigns over a vast empire. He is seeking a new queen after deposing Queen Vashti. The Hebrew name for Ahasuerus is אֲחַשְׁוֵרוֹשׁ (Achashverosh). 2. Mordecai A Jew from the tribe of Benjamin, living in Susa, who is the cousin and guardian of Esther. His Hebrew name is מָרְדֳּכַי (Mordochai). 3. Esther (Hadassah) A Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, who becomes queen. Her Hebrew name is אֶסְתֵּר (Ester), and her original name, Hadassah, means "myrtle." 4. Hegai The king's eunuch in charge of the women, who shows favor to Esther. His role is crucial in preparing the women for their presentation to the king. 5. Shaashgaz Another of the king's eunuchs, who is in charge of the concubines. His role is mentioned briefly in the context of the women’s preparation. 6. Bigthan and Teresh Two of the king's eunuchs who conspire to assassinate King Ahasuerus. Their plot is discovered by Mordecai, which later plays a significant role in the narrative. Places 1. Susa (Shushan) This is the capital of the Persian Empire where King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) holds his court. Susa is a central location in the Book of Esther, serving as the backdrop for much of the story. The Hebrew term for Susa is "שׁוּשַׁן" (Shushan), which was one of the major cities of the ancient Near East. 2. The Citadel Also referred to as the "fortress" or "palace," this is the specific part of Susa where the king's palace is located. It is the setting for many of the events in Esther, including the selection of Esther as queen. The Hebrew word used is "בִּירָה" (birah), indicating a fortified complex. Events 1. Search for a New Queen After Queen Vashti is deposed, King Ahasuerus's attendants suggest finding a new queen. "Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king." (Esther 2:2). The Hebrew word for "virgins" is "בְּתוּלוֹת" (betulot), indicating young unmarried women. 2. Esther's Introduction Mordecai, a Jew living in Susa, has a cousin named Hadassah, also known as Esther, who is described as "lovely in form and features" (Esther 2:7). The Hebrew name "Hadassah" means "myrtle," while "Esther" is thought to be derived from the Persian word for "star." 3. Esther Taken to the Palace Esther is taken to the king's palace as part of the search for a new queen. "Esther was also taken to the king’s palace and entrusted to Hegai, who was in charge of the harem." (Esther 2:8). 4. Esther Finds Favor Esther gains favor with Hegai, the custodian of the women. "And the young woman pleased him and won his favor." (Esther 2:9). The Hebrew root "חֵן" (chen) means "favor" or "grace." 5. Mordecai's Instructions Mordecai instructs Esther not to reveal her Jewish identity. "Esther had not revealed her people or her lineage, because Mordecai had instructed her not to do so." (Esther 2:10). 6. Preparation for Meeting the King The women undergo twelve months of beauty treatments before meeting the king. "Before a young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus, she had to complete twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women." (Esther 2:12). 7. Esther Becomes Queen Esther is chosen by King Ahasuerus to be the new queen. "The king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins." (Esther 2:17). 8. Mordecai Uncovers a Plot Mordecai discovers a plot to assassinate King Ahasuerus. "During the time Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs who guarded the entrance, became angry and conspired to assassinate King Ahasuerus." (Esther 2:21). 9. Plot Reported and Recorded Mordecai reports the plot to Esther, who informs the king, and the matter is investigated and found to be true. "When the report was investigated and found to be true, the two officials were hanged on the gallows." (Esther 2:23). The Hebrew word for "gallows" is "עֵץ" (etz), which can also mean "tree" or "wood." Lessons from Esther 2 1. Divine Timing is Perfect In Esther 2, we see the orchestration of events that lead to Esther becoming queen. This reminds us that God's timing is impeccable. As it is written, "He has made everything beautiful in its time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Trust that God’s plans unfold at the right moment, even when we cannot see the full picture. 2. God Uses Ordinary People for Extraordinary Purposes Esther was an ordinary Jewish girl, yet she was chosen to be queen. This demonstrates that God often uses those who seem insignificant to accomplish His grand purposes. As 1 Corinthians 1:27 states, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise." Never underestimate what God can do through you. 3. Preparation is Key Before Esther met the king, she underwent a year of beauty treatments. This preparation was crucial for her role. Similarly, God prepares us for the tasks He sets before us. "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works" (Ephesians 2:10). Embrace the preparation process as part of His plan. 4. Favor Comes from God Esther found favor in the eyes of everyone who saw her, including the king. This favor was not by chance but by divine appointment. Proverbs 3:4 encourages us, "Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man." Seek to live in a way that honors God, and He will grant you favor. 5. Humility Opens Doors Esther’s humility and obedience to Mordecai’s instructions played a significant role in her success. "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you" (James 4:10). Humility is a powerful trait that God honors and uses to open doors we never imagined. 6. God’s Plans are Unstoppable Despite the challenges and uncertainties, God’s plan for Esther to become queen was fulfilled. This is a testament to the fact that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted. "The LORD of Hosts has sworn: 'As I have planned, so will it be; as I have purposed, so will it stand'" (Isaiah 14:24). 7. Courage is Essential Esther’s journey required courage, as she stepped into a role that was fraught with risk. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Courage is essential when following God’s call. 8. God’s Providence is at Work The seemingly random events in Esther’s life were part of God’s providential plan. "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). Trust that God is weaving your life’s events into a beautiful tapestry. 9. Influence is a Responsibility As queen, Esther had significant influence, which she used for the good of her people. "To whom much is given, much will be required" (Luke 12:48). Recognize the influence you have and use it responsibly to further God’s kingdom. 10. God’s Faithfulness is Unchanging Throughout Esther’s story, God’s faithfulness is evident. He remained true to His promises and His people. "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of loving devotion for a thousand generations" (Deuteronomy 7:9). Rest in the assurance of His unchanging faithfulness. Topics 1. Search for a New Queen (Esther 2:1-4) After Queen Vashti's removal, King Ahasuerus's attendants suggest a search for beautiful young virgins to find a new queen. The Hebrew term "בְּתוּלוֹת" (betulot) is used for "virgins," emphasizing their purity and eligibility. 2. Esther's Introduction (Esther 2:5-7) Mordecai, a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin, is introduced along with his cousin Hadassah, also known as Esther. The Hebrew name "אֶסְתֵּר" (Esther) is derived from the Persian word for "star," symbolizing her future prominence. 3. Esther Taken to the Palace (Esther 2:8-9) Esther is taken to the king's palace and gains favor with Hegai, the custodian of the women. The Hebrew root "חֵן" (chen) for "favor" indicates divine providence in her journey. 4. Mordecai's Instructions (Esther 2:10-11) Mordecai instructs Esther not to reveal her Jewish identity, highlighting the theme of wisdom and discretion. The Hebrew word "אָמַר" (amar) for "commanded" underscores the authority and care in Mordecai's guidance. 5. Preparation for Meeting the King (Esther 2:12-14) The young women undergo a year-long beautification process before meeting the king. The Hebrew term "תַּמְרוּקֵי" (tamruqei) refers to "beauty treatments," indicating the extensive preparation required. 6. Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:15-18) Esther wins the king's favor and is crowned queen. The Hebrew word "מַלְכוּת" (malkut) for "royalty" signifies her new status and the fulfillment of God's plan. 7. Mordecai Uncovers a Plot (Esther 2:19-23) Mordecai discovers a plot to assassinate the king and informs Esther, who reports it to the king. The Hebrew root "גָּלָה" (galah) for "uncovered" highlights the revelation and protection of divine intervention. Themes 1. Divine Providence Esther 2 illustrates the theme of divine providence, where God's unseen hand guides events for His purposes. Although God's name is not mentioned, His influence is evident as Esther, a Jewish orphan, is chosen to become queen. This aligns with the Hebrew concept of "hashgacha pratit," meaning personal divine supervision. 2. Favor and Grace Esther finds favor in the eyes of those around her, particularly Hegai, the king's eunuch, and King Xerxes himself. The Hebrew word "ḥen" (חֵן), meaning grace or favor, underscores how God grants Esther favor, which is crucial for her future role in saving her people. 3. Identity and Heritage Esther's Jewish identity is initially concealed, highlighting the theme of identity. Mordecai instructs her not to reveal her heritage, which reflects the tension between assimilation and maintaining one's cultural and religious identity. 4. Preparation and Obedience The extensive preparation process for the women, including Esther, signifies the importance of readiness and obedience. Esther's compliance with Mordecai's instructions and the beauty treatments she undergoes symbolize spiritual and physical preparation for God's purposes. 5. God's Sovereignty in Leadership The selection of Esther as queen demonstrates God's sovereignty in leadership changes. Despite the political and social structures of the Persian Empire, God orchestrates events to place Esther in a position of influence, reflecting the Hebrew understanding of God's ultimate control over human affairs. 6. Mordecai's Wisdom and Guidance Mordecai's role as a mentor to Esther highlights the theme of wise counsel and guidance. His instructions and concern for Esther's well-being reflect the Hebrew value of "hokhmah" (חָכְמָה), or wisdom, in navigating complex situations. 7. Courage and Faithfulness Esther's journey from an orphan to a queen requires courage and faithfulness. Her willingness to follow Mordecai's guidance and adapt to her new role exemplifies the Hebrew concept of "emunah" (אֱמוּנָה), or faithfulness, in trusting God's plan. Prayer Points Pray for Trust in God's Plan Ask God to help you trust His plan and timing in your life, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Pray for Wisdom and Integrity Seek God's guidance to act with wisdom and integrity in all situations, just as Mordecai did. Pray for Readiness to Serve Request that God prepares your heart and mind to be ready for the opportunities He places before you. Pray for Courage to Embrace Your Calling Ask for the courage to embrace your identity and calling in Christ, trusting that He can use you for His purposes. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Esther 2:7, is it historically plausible for a Jewish orphan with no royal lineage to rise to Persian queenship? 2. Does Esther 2:9’s mention of special favor contradict known Persian customs for selecting a royal consort? 3. Why do historical records outside the Bible not verify the extensive beauty regimen described in Esther 2:12? 4. How does Esther 2:15 align with other biblical traditions when it omits any mention of Jewish religious practice? 5. Why is there no clear historical or archaeological evidence supporting Mordecai’s position “at the king’s gate” in Esther 2:19–21? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the story of Esther demonstrate God's providence? 2. Can you think of any situation in your own life where you felt led by destiny, just like Esther? 3. How did Esther's character contribute to her finding favor with Hegai and King Xerxes? 4. In the modern world, how can we cultivate the humility and wisdom that Esther demonstrated? 5. What does Esther's preparation period before meeting the king signify in our spiritual life? 6. How can we apply Mordecai's protective care for Esther in our relationships with others? 7. What lessons can we learn from the role of Hegai in Esther's life? 8. How can we discern God's purpose for us in our current circumstances, as Esther did in hers? 9. How can we appropriately use our positions of influence for the benefit of others? 10. What could have happened if Esther revealed her Jewish identity prematurely? 11. What can we learn from the way Esther handled her new position and authority? 12. How did Esther and Mordecai's actions contribute to the survival of the Jewish people? 13. How do Esther's courage and obedience serve as an example for us in today's society? 14. What qualities did Esther exhibit that modern leaders should cultivate? 15. How can we see God's sovereignty at play even when His name is not mentioned, just like in the book of Esther? 16. In our society today, how can we protect those we love and care for, like Mordecai did for Esther? 17. How does Esther’s story inspire us to be faithful and diligent in small things? 18. How does Esther's rise to queen demonstrate that God can use anyone to fulfill His purposes? 19. How did the celebration, the "Feast of Esther", acknowledge her unique role in the palace? 20. How does Mordecai’s discovery of the conspiracy teach us about vigilance and loyalty in our lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions