The Book of Esther

Esther is a short book in the Old Testament. It tells the story of a young Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia. Through courage and faith, she saves her people from a deadly plan. Even though God is not mentioned directly in the book, His presence is felt in the way things unfold.

The story takes place when many Jews were living in exile. They were far from home and under foreign rule. Esther, an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen to be queen. She keeps her Jewish identity a secret at first. But when danger comes, she must decide whether to stay silent or speak up.

A powerful man named Haman wants to destroy the Jews. He tricks the king into signing a law to have them killed. Esther takes a big risk. She goes to the king without being called, which could mean death. But her courage helps change the king’s mind.

This book teaches us about bravery, faith, and trusting that God is working even when we can’t see Him. Esther shows how one person can make a difference. Her story reminds us that we are sometimes placed in hard situations for a reason.

The Book of Esther takes place in ancient Persia. This was during a time when many Jews lived far from their homeland. They had been taken into exile years before. Some had returned, but many stayed behind in places like Susa, the capital city mentioned in the book.

The Persian Empire was very large. It ruled over many people and nations. The king in Esther’s story is usually known as Xerxes I. He ruled in the 5th century before Jesus was born. The story shows what life was like for Jews living in a land where they were a small and sometimes unwanted group.

We don’t know exactly who wrote the Book of Esther. It may have been a Jew living in Persia. Some think it was written to explain the feast of Purim, which celebrates how Esther helped save the Jewish people. It was likely written many years after the events happened.

The book was written to give hope. It reminded people that they were not forgotten. Even in a foreign land, they could trust that God had not left them. Esther’s courage would be remembered for generations.

The Book of Esther is written like a story you might see in a play. It has a clear beginning, middle, and end. There are heroes, villains, and big moments of tension. The story builds up slowly and then reaches an exciting high point before everything is resolved.

Esther’s story has many twists. Things seem to go well, then suddenly turn bad. But in the end, good wins. The way the story is told keeps the reader interested. Each chapter brings a new part of the plan or a new danger. The writer wants us to feel the suspense and worry about what will happen next.

Characters are clearly drawn. Esther is brave. Mordecai is wise. Haman is proud and angry. The king is powerful but also unsure. These strong personalities help the story come alive. Their actions move the story forward quickly.

Even though God’s name is never said, the writing hints at something bigger happening behind the scenes. The story uses timing, chance meetings, and sudden changes to show that things are not just random. It teaches through action, not speeches. That is part of what makes the book so powerful.

The Book of Esther shows several themes that connect with Catholic life and teaching. These themes remind us how to live our faith even when times are hard.

• Courage – Esther risks her life to speak up for her people. Catholics are also called to be brave, especially when it means standing up for what is right.
• God’s hidden work – God is not named in the book, but we can still see His hand in how events turn out. In our lives, we may not always see clear signs, but we trust that God is still guiding us.
• Trust in God – Mordecai believes help will come, even when he doesn’t know how. Catholics are taught to trust that God never leaves us, even in danger.
• Prayer and fasting – Before Esther acts, she and her people fast and pray. The Church teaches that prayer and fasting help us grow close to God and prepare for hard choices.
• Helping others – Esther uses her place as queen to help her people. Catholics are also called to use their gifts to serve others, especially those in need.

These themes show us how faith can be lived out in daily life. Esther’s actions reflect what the Church teaches about courage, prayer, and trusting God’s plan.

The Book of Esther is made up of several parts. Some Bibles include extra sections found in the Greek version, which are used in Catholic Bibles. These added parts include prayers and more details that help explain the story.

Here is a simple breakdown of the book:

• Esther 1:1–22 – Queen Vashti refuses the king and is removed. This sets the stage for Esther to become queen.
• Esther 2:1–23 – Esther is chosen to be the new queen. Mordecai uncovers a plot to kill the king.
• Esther 3:1–15 – Haman becomes powerful and plans to kill the Jews.
• Esther 4:1–17 – Mordecai asks Esther to speak to the king. She agrees and asks for prayer and fasting.
• Esther 5:1–14 – Esther goes to the king and invites him and Haman to a banquet.
• Esther 6:1–14 – The king honors Mordecai instead of Haman, who had planned to hang him.
• Esther 7:1–10 – Esther reveals Haman’s plan, and Haman is punished.
• Esther 8:1–17 – A new law is made to protect the Jews.
• Esther 9:1–32 – The Jews defend themselves. The feast of Purim is started.
• Esther 10:1–3 – Mordecai becomes important in the king’s court.

The Greek parts, often added in Catholic Bibles, include prayers by Esther and Mordecai, and show more clearly how they trusted in God. These parts help us see the faith side of the story.

The Book of Esther has strong and clear characters. Each one plays an important part in the story. Here are the main people you should know:

• Esther – A young Jewish woman who becomes queen. She is brave and willing to risk her life to save her people.
• Mordecai – Esther’s cousin who raises her. He is wise and faithful. He encourages Esther to take action.
• King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) – The ruler of Persia. He has great power but is often led by others.
• Haman – A proud official who hates the Jews. He plans to destroy them but ends up being punished.
• Queen Vashti – The first queen. She refuses the king’s command and is removed. This opens the way for Esther to become queen.

These characters help the story move forward. Their choices and actions show how important it is to speak up, stand firm, and trust that good can still win.

The story of Esther still speaks to us today. Many people feel afraid to stand up for what is right. Some are scared to share their faith or speak when something is wrong. Esther shows us that even in fear, we can choose to act with courage.

In our world, people still face unfair treatment. Like the Jews in Esther’s time, many feel alone or forgotten. Esther reminds us to care for others, especially those who are in danger or left out. We are called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Esther also teaches us to trust in God’s timing. She waits and prays before acting. In our lives, things do not always happen right away. But that does not mean we should give up. We keep praying, keep hoping, and keep doing good.

This story can help young people, parents, and leaders. It gives a simple but strong message: you were made for a reason. When the moment comes, be ready to act with faith and love.

The Book of Esther is read once during the Church year in the Roman Catholic lectionary. This reading appears on Thursday of the First Week of Lent. It is taken from the Greek sections of Esther, which are included in Catholic Bibles.

The reading focuses on Esther’s prayer to God before she goes to the king. She is afraid but places all her trust in God. Her words remind us to turn to God in times of fear and doubt. We are called to pray with faith, even when the outcome is uncertain.

This passage fits well during Lent, a season of prayer, fasting, and reflection. Esther’s actions encourage us to trust that God hears our prayers and gives us strength. Even when we feel alone or unsure, God is close.

In this short reading, we see how courage, trust, and prayer work together. It is a simple but strong reminder of how we are called to live our faith.

Thursday of the 1st Week of Lent – Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25: Queen Esther’s Prayer

Starting Esther with a Twist

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how the Book of Esther begins in a different way than many expect. He explains that in the Catholic Bible, Esther chapters 11 and 12 come first because they are part of the Deuterocanonical additions. These chapters help tell the full story in order.

Fr. Mike shares that some Christians do not include these extra chapters. He mentions that Martin Luther removed them, along with other books. Even St. Jerome had doubts at first, but Pope Damasus told him to include them because they were in the Greek version used by early Christians.

The extra parts were placed at the end in the Vulgate but are now put where they fit best in the story. This helps the reader understand the flow of Esther more clearly.

Fr. Mike says these added chapters, like Mordecai’s dream in chapter 11, are important for understanding later parts of the story. He’s excited that listeners get to read them and see how the story connects.

Esther Steps into a Broken World

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Esther chapters 1 and 2. He explains that King Ahasuerus is not someone to admire. After a long party, he tries to parade Queen Vashti in front of everyone, and she refuses. Because of this, she is removed as queen.

Fr. Mike says this shows a broken system. Vashti and the other women are treated like property. Then Esther, a Jewish woman, is brought into this system and becomes queen. Fr. Mike points out that the king’s actions and the culture around him are unfair and full of injustice.

Still, God is working through this messy situation. Fr. Mike says that Esther will be used by God, even in a broken world. Just like her, we also live in a world that is not perfect. But God can still use us to help others.

He reminds us that the reason we see the wrong in this story is because of our Jewish and Christian faith. That faith teaches us that men and women have equal dignity. Fr. Mike is excited to keep walking with Esther in the coming days.

Haman’s Plot and a Rising Threat

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Esther chapter 3 and chapter 13. He explains how Haman is promoted and becomes second in command under King Ahasuerus. Mordecai refuses to bow to Haman, which makes Haman angry.

Instead of only going after Mordecai, Haman decides to destroy all the Jewish people. Fr. Mike says Haman lies to the king, calling the Jews hostile and different. The king agrees to the plan without much thought, showing again that he is not wise or just.

Chapter 13 gives the king’s letter. Fr. Mike points out how the king talks about keeping peace but does so by ordering mass murder. He compares it to how some leaders claim to fix problems but do it through violence.

Fr. Mike reminds us that Esther will soon face this evil. When she goes before the king, she risks her life. He says this is a big moment and invites us to reflect on our own call to witness, even when it feels dangerous.

Esther’s Courage and Honest Prayer

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Esther chapters 4 and 14. He explains how Mordecai urges Esther to go before the king to save the Jewish people. At first, Esther is afraid, knowing she could be killed for approaching the king without being called. Mordecai tells her that maybe she was placed in this position “for such a time as this.”

Fr. Mike highlights the power of Esther’s response. She agrees to go to the king and says, “If I perish, I perish.” He praises her bravery and her decision to fast and pray before taking action. Mordecai also prays, saying he didn’t act out of pride but stayed true to God.

Fr. Mike focuses on Esther’s deep prayer in chapter 14. She strips away her royal appearance, puts on ashes, and cries out to God. Esther admits she hates her position in the palace and does not feel proud of her role. Still, she chooses to trust God.

Fr. Mike says Esther is honest, humble, and strong. Even though she has suffered and feels trapped, she is not bitter or hopeless. She turns to God with faith, asking Him to save her people and give her courage. Fr. Mike reminds us why Queen Esther is so loved.

Weakness That Changed a King

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Esther chapters 15, 6, and 7. He focuses on Esther’s moment of courage when she approaches the king. She is dressed beautifully, but her heart is full of fear. She faints in front of him, and it is her weakness that changes the king’s heart.

Fr. Mike says it wasn’t Esther’s beauty or strength that moved the king. It was her weakness that softened him. God knew how to reach this broken man and allowed Esther to falter at just the right time.

He explains that sometimes we think we must be perfect for God to work through us. But God often chooses to work through our weakness. Just like with Esther, He can use those moments to bring about something good.

Fr. Mike reminds us that Esther was brave and faithful. But in this part of the story, it is her weakness that God uses to help save her people. He encourages us to trust that God can work through our own weakness too.

The Clever King and a Courageous Queen

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares his thoughts on Esther chapters 8 and 16. He talks about how King Ahasuerus did not cancel Haman’s command to attack the Jews. Instead, he gave the Jews permission to defend themselves. Fr. Mike points out that this was a clever way to solve the problem without breaking the law.

He says this moment shows how the king found a way to help without undoing his own rule. The Jews were now allowed to fight back on the day their enemies planned to destroy them. And they were even allowed to take the property of those who attacked them. This gave the people hope and strength.

Fr. Mike also talks about the special day this event created—Purim. He says it’s a joyful feast that came from a very dark time. The day became a reason for the people to celebrate their survival and thank God for saving them.

He ends by praising Esther once more. Fr. Mike reminds us that even in her fear and weakness, Esther trusted in God. Her courage and her faith helped save her people. He calls her an incredible woman who allowed God to work through her.

A Joyful Feast from a Hard Story

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about the end of the Book of Esther, chapters 9 through 11. He explains how the Jews defended themselves and won against their enemies. They were allowed to take the plunder, but they chose not to. Fr. Mike says this shows they acted with restraint and justice.

Fr. Mike reflects on the meaning of the Feast of Purim. He says Purim came from sorrow and fear, but turned into joy and celebration. The people remembered how God helped them. They shared gifts and food and took care of the poor.

He also notes that many Jewish people over the centuries looked to Queen Esther for courage. Especially during hard times like the Shoah, her story gave them hope. Fr. Mike reminds us that Esther was part of God’s plan, even when things looked dark.

Fr. Mike closes by saying that the Jews did not just seek revenge. They acted with justice and mercy. He says the Book of Esther shows that even in a broken world, people can choose what is right.

The Bible

Want to learn more about the Bible and how to read it? The story of Esther is just one part of a much bigger picture. Understanding the whole Bible helps us see how God works through history and through people like Esther.

Visit our page about Understanding the Bible to explore more. It’s a good place to start if you want to grow in faith and learn how to read Scripture with meaning.

Is God mentioned in the Book of Esther?

No, God’s name is not directly used in the book. But Catholics believe God is still present in the story. His care is seen in how things turn out.

Why is Esther important in the Bible?

Esther is important because she saves her people by speaking up. Her courage and trust remind us to act with faith, even when it’s hard.

What is the Feast of Purim?

Purim is a Jewish feast that celebrates how the Jews were saved in Esther’s story. Catholics do not celebrate Purim, but we can learn from its meaning.

Does the Catholic Bible include extra parts of Esther?

Yes. Catholic Bibles include extra sections found in the Greek version. These parts include prayers and more details about Esther and Mordecai.

What can we learn from Esther today?

We learn to pray, trust in God, and speak up for others. Esther shows us that one person can make a big difference.

The Book of Esther tells how a young Jewish woman becomes queen and helps save her people. Esther lives in Persia during a time when the Jews are far from home. She is chosen to be queen after Queen Vashti is removed. Esther keeps her Jewish identity a secret at first.

When a man named Haman plans to kill all the Jews, Esther’s cousin Mordecai asks her to speak to the king. It is risky, because going to the king without being called could lead to death. Esther chooses to act. She prays, fasts, and then goes to the king. Her courage helps stop Haman’s evil plan.

Catholics see Esther as an example of trust, prayer, and bravery. Though God’s name is not used in the book, we believe God is present in every part of the story. The Church includes Esther’s prayers in the Bible to show her deep faith.

Esther reminds us that God can work through anyone. Even in hard times, He is with us. Like Esther, we are sometimes placed in the right place at the right time. We just need to be ready to act with faith and courage.

Have you read the Book of Esther? It’s a short story, but it says a lot. Take some time this week to read it slowly. Pay attention to the choices Esther makes and the way she prepares through prayer and fasting.

After you read, come back and share your thoughts. What part stood out to you? How do you think God is at work even when He seems hidden? Share your ideas in the comment section below.