Esther, born Hadassah, was a Jewish woman who became the queen of Persia during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). She was an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai (Esther 2:7). Esther was chosen to be queen after Ahasuerus deposed Queen Vashti (Esther 2:17). When Haman, a high-ranking official, plotted to exterminate the Jews, Esther risked her life by approaching the king uninvited to expose Haman's plot (Esther 4-5). As a result, Haman was hanged, and the Jews were given the right to defend themselves, leading to their deliverance (Esther 7-8). Esther and Mordecai instituted the Feast of Purim to commemorate this event (Esther 9:29-32). Her story exemplifies courage, faith, and God's providence in protecting His people.
Esther
AbihailEnglishA woman living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Est.2.7.