Esther 2:15–20
Esther was the daughter of Abihail, who was Mordecai’s uncle. (Mordecai had adopted his younger cousin Esther.) When it was Esther’s turn to go to the king, she accepted the advice of Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the harem. [Esther’s humble wisdom is shown by accepting help in her preparation for the king.] She asked for nothing except what he suggested, and she was admired by everyone who saw her.
Esther was taken to King Xerxes at the royal palace in early winter of the seventh year of his reign. And the king loved Esther more than any of the other young women. He was so delighted with her that he set the royal crown on her head and declared her queen instead of Vashti. To celebrate the occasion, he gave a great banquet in Esther’s honor for all his nobles and officials, declaring a public holiday for the provinces and giving generous gifts to everyone. [The blessing Xerxes gives to Esther is now extended to all the people.]
Even after all the young women had been transferred to the second harem and Mordecai had become a palace official, Esther continued to keep her family background and nationality a secret. She was still following Mordecai’s directions, just as she did when she lived in his home. [Esther and Mordecai’s plans are working out well; they are working together as a team as part of the kingdom. Finally, God’s people are in a position of influence, but the cost of them getting there is hiding who they are and their unique relationship with God.]
RESPONSE
- What emotions or thoughts do you think Esther might have experienced as she approached the king?
2. Esther is advised to keep her Jewish identity a secret. Why do you think this advice was given? What does Esther’s discretion reveal about the challenges she may have faced as a Jewish woman in the Persian court?