Esther
INTRODUCTION
The Book of Esther is set in the Persian capital of Susa. It tells the story of a vicious plot against the Jewish people that was thwarted by Esther, a young Jewish girl married to the empire’s ruler, Xerxes. This victory of the Jews over Gentile persecutors, which took place in the 470s B.C., is commemorated by the Feast of Purim, still celebrated in our own day. The Book of Esther is unique for its failure to mention God. Yet its messages shine clearly through as the story unfolds. God did take providential care of His Old Testament people, even when they lived outside the Promised Land. And, God works through circumstance as well as through miracles.
OUTLINE OF CONTENTS
| I. | Esther Becomes Queen of Persia | Es. 1–2 |
| II. | Haman’s Hatred of Mordecai | Es. 3–5 |
| III. | Haman’s Downfall | Es. 6–8 |
| IV. | The Victory of the Jews | Es. 9–10 |
