Hebrew · Strong's H635
אֶסְתֵּר
(es-TAYR)
proper noun
Esther is the Hebrew name of the Jewish heroine of the biblical book of Esther, a queen of Persia.
Esther, also known by her given Hebrew name Hadassah, became queen of Persia and was instrumental in saving her people from a planned genocide. Though the name of God is notably absent from the book of Esther, her story is a powerful testimony to divine providence and courage. Esther’s primary role is as an intercessor for her people, a position she assumes despite great personal risk. Her beauty and favor with the king open doors, but it is her obedience and courage that ultimately lead to the deliverance of the Jews.
The narrative highlights themes of exile, identity, and the hidden hand of God at work in human affairs. Esther initially conceals her Jewish heritage at Mordecai's instruction, but later reveals it to the king to plead for her people. This revelation is a pivotal moment, demonstrating her growth from a humble orphan to a powerful advocate for her people, risking her own life by approaching the king unbidden.
Her story emphasizes the importance of standing up for justice and the vulnerable, even in the face of daunting power structures. Esther’s resolve, famously expressed in her statement, "If I perish, I perish," underscores a profound commitment to her people and faith. This narrative serves as the historical basis for the Jewish festival of Purim, celebrating the deliverance of the Jewish people.
Common English renderings
- Esther
- Hadassah (her Hebrew name)
- Queen
Key verses
"And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maiden was fair and beautiful; and when her father and mother were dead, Mordecai took her for his own daughter."
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"Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen and to Mordecai the Jew, Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand upon the Jews."
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"Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king’s chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her."
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"And the king arose in his wrath from the banquet of wine and went into the palace garden: and Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen; for he saw that there was evil determined against him by the king."
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"And the king said again unto Esther on the second day at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition, queen Esther? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed."
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