The Book of Esther is the seventeenth book of the Bible and tells the dramatic story of how God saved the Jewish people from destruction while they were living in exile in Persia.

Although God’s name is never mentioned, His providence, protection, and purpose are woven through every chapter.

Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 1–2)

The book begins with King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) removing Queen Vashti for disobedience.

A search begins for a new queen, and Esther, a young Jewish woman, is chosen.

Key Highlights:

• Esther is raised by her cousin Mordecai after being orphaned.
• She is selected for her beauty and character to become queen of Persia.
• Her Jewish identity is kept secret.

Lesson: God places people in key positions for His divine purposes—even when it’s not obvious.

Haman’s Plot to Destroy the Jews (Esther 3–4)

Haman, a powerful official, becomes enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him.

He plots to annihilate all Jews in the Persian Empire.

Key Highlights:

• Haman manipulates King Xerxes into issuing a decree for genocide.
• Mordecai urges Esther to speak to the king despite the risk to her life.
• Mordecai declares, “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

Lesson: Courage often requires risk, but God can use our bravery to change the course of history.

Esther’s Bold Request (Esther 5–7)

Esther risks her life by approaching the king without being summoned.

She cleverly invites the king and Haman to a series of banquets, where she eventually reveals Haman’s plot.

Key Highlights:

• Esther gains the king’s favour and prepares her moment to expose the danger.
• At the second banquet, she reveals her identity and pleads for her people’s lives.
• The king orders that Haman be executed on the gallows he built for Mordecai.

Lesson: God turns the plans of the wicked back on themselves and protects His people.

The Jews Are Saved (Esther 8–10)

A new decree is issued, allowing the Jews to defend themselves, and they are victorious over their enemies.

The events lead to the creation of the Feast of Purim, a celebration of their deliverance.

Key Highlights:

• Mordecai is promoted to second-in-command.
• The Jews overcome their enemies with the king’s support.
• Purim is established as an annual festival to remember God’s deliverance.

Lesson: God is always working behind the scenes to protect and preserve His people.

Final Thoughts

The Book of Esther is a story of courage, faith, and divine timing.

Though God’s name is not mentioned, His presence is unmistakable.

Esther reminds us that God places us where we are for a reason, and when we step out in faith, He can use us to bring about great change.