Introduction:
Hadassah, better known by her Persian name Esther, is a central figure in the Old Testament Book of Esther. Her account is one of courage, faith, and divine providence, illustrating how God can use individuals to fulfill His purposes. Esther's narrative is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia, and it provides a profound example of God's protection over His people, the Jews, during a time of great peril.

Name and Identity:
The name "Hadassah" (Hebrew: הֲדַסָּה) means "myrtle," a plant known for its fragrance and beauty. Her Persian name, "Esther" (Hebrew: אֶסְתֵּר), is thought to be derived from the Persian word for "star" or possibly from the goddess Ishtar. Esther's dual names reflect her dual identity as a Jewish woman living in a foreign land.

Historical Context:
Esther's account unfolds in the Persian Empire during the 5th century BC. After the Babylonian exile, many Jews remained in Persia, where they faced the challenge of maintaining their identity and faith in a pagan society. The Book of Esther is unique in the biblical canon as it does not explicitly mention God, yet His providential care is evident throughout the narrative.

Narrative Overview:
Esther was an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, a Jew living in Susa, the Persian capital. When Queen Vashti was deposed for her disobedience to King Ahasuerus, a search for a new queen began. Esther, noted for her beauty and grace, was taken to the king's palace and eventually chosen as queen.

The central conflict arises with Haman, an Agagite and high-ranking official, who harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman devised a plot to annihilate all Jews in the empire, casting lots (purim) to determine the date of their destruction.

Esther's Courage and Faith:
Mordecai urged Esther to intercede with the king, reminding her of her unique position and the possibility that she had come to her royal position "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). Despite the risk of approaching the king unsummoned, which could result in death, Esther demonstrated remarkable bravery. She requested that all Jews in Susa fast for three days, after which she approached the king.

Esther's tactful approach led to a series of banquets, during which she revealed her Jewish identity and exposed Haman's plot. The king, enraged by Haman's treachery, ordered Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai.

The Feast of Purim:
The Jews were granted the right to defend themselves, leading to their victory over their enemies. This deliverance is commemorated annually in the Jewish festival of Purim, named after the lots Haman cast. Esther's role in this deliverance is celebrated, and the Book of Esther is read in synagogues during the festival.

Legacy and Theological Themes:
Esther's account highlights themes of divine providence, the reversal of fortunes, and the importance of faith and courage in the face of adversity. Her life serves as a testament to God's ability to work through individuals to bring about His purposes, even in seemingly secular and hostile environments. Esther's legacy endures as a symbol of hope and deliverance for the Jewish people and as an example of faithfulness and bravery for all believers.