The account of Esther becoming queen is a pivotal narrative found in the Book of Esther, a part of the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament. This account is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia, who ruled from 486 to 465 BC. The events unfold in the Persian capital of Susa, providing a backdrop of royal intrigue, divine providence, and the preservation of the Jewish people.

Background and Context

The Book of Esther opens with a grand banquet hosted by King Ahasuerus, showcasing the opulence of his kingdom. During this feast, the king commands his queen, Vashti, to appear before the guests to display her beauty. Vashti's refusal leads to her being deposed, creating a vacancy for the position of queen (Esther 1:10-22).

Esther's Rise to Queenship

In search of a new queen, Ahasuerus orders a kingdom-wide search for beautiful young virgins. Among those brought to the king's palace is Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Esther, known for her beauty and grace, quickly gains favor with Hegai, the custodian of the women, and ultimately with King Ahasuerus himself (Esther 2:8-9, 15-17).

Esther's Jewish identity remains concealed at Mordecai's instruction, highlighting the precarious position of Jews in the Persian Empire. The king, unaware of her heritage, chooses Esther as his queen, placing her in a position of influence and setting the stage for the deliverance of her people (Esther 2:10, 20).

Mordecai's Role and the Threat to the Jews

Mordecai, who sits at the king's gate, uncovers a plot to assassinate Ahasuerus and informs Esther, who in turn warns the king, saving his life. This act of loyalty is recorded in the royal chronicles, though Mordecai receives no immediate reward (Esther 2:21-23).

The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the rise of Haman, an Agagite, to a position of power. Haman's animosity towards Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him, leads to a decree to annihilate all Jews in the empire. This edict, sealed with the king's signet ring, poses an existential threat to Esther's people (Esther 3:1-13).

Esther's Courage and Intervention

Mordecai urges Esther to intercede with the king, reminding her of her unique position and the possibility that she has attained royalty "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). Esther, risking her life, approaches the king unsummoned, a bold act that could result in her death. However, she finds favor in his sight and invites him and Haman to a banquet (Esther 4:16, 5:1-8).

During the second banquet, Esther reveals her Jewish identity and pleads for her people, exposing Haman's plot. The king, enraged, orders Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:1-10).

Aftermath and Significance

Following Haman's downfall, Mordecai is elevated to a position of authority, and a new decree is issued, allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. This leads to a great victory and the establishment of the Feast of Purim, commemorating their deliverance (Esther 8:1-17, 9:20-32).

The account of Esther becoming queen is a testament to divine providence and the courage of individuals who stand for righteousness. It underscores the belief that God works through human actions to fulfill His purposes, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.