![]() ![]() Recording duplications appears to be one of the favorite compositional techniques Two banquets given by Xerxes, the two prepared by Esther and the double celebration The beginning, middle and end of the story are particularly prominent: the On 2:3-4,9,21-23 3:4 4:14 6:1,8,14 8:6), in which the remnant motif isĪlso central to the narrative (see Ge 45:7 and note).įeasting is another prominent theme in Esther, as shown in the outline below.īanquets provide the setting for important plot developments. Patterned much of his material on the events of the Joseph story (see notes Were jeopardized by Haman's edict to destroy the Jews. The futureĮxistence of God's chosen people, and ultimately the appearance of the Redeemer-Messiah, Threatened the continuity of God's purposes in redemptive history. ![]() (natural disasters, disease, warfare or other calamities threaten God's people The author also draws upon the remnant motif that recurs throughout the Bible With Haman's defeat the JewsĮnjoy rest from their enemies ( 9:16,22). Is promised to the people of God (see Dt 25:19). Has been released from captivity, Haman's edict is the final major effort inĬlosely associated with the conflict with the Amalekites is the rest that The author of Esther views them - as the epitome of all the powers of the worldĪrrayed against God's people (see Nu 24:20 1Sa 15:2-3 28:18). As the first toĪttack Israel after their deliverance from Egypt, the Amalekites were viewed - and Israel's history ( 1Sa 15 1Ch 4:43 and, of course, Esther). That began during the exodus ( Ex 17:8-16 Dt 25:17-19) and continued through Throughout much of the story the author calls to mind the ongoing conflictīetween Israel and the Amalekites (see notes on 2:5 3:1-6 9:5-10), a conflict Its perpetual commemoration (see 3:7 9:26-32 see also chart, pp. The bookĪccounts for both the initiation of that observance and the obligation for Great deliverance of the Jewish people during the reign of Xerxes. The author's central purpose was to record the institution of the annualįestival of Purim and to keep alive for later generations the memory of the However, suggest that the book must have been written before the Persian empireįell to Greece in 331. the absence of Greek words and the style of the author's Hebrew dialect, Several scholars have dated the book later than 330ī.c. Time prior to the actual writing of the book ( 9:19) and that Xerxes had alreadyĭied (see 10:2 and note). InternalĮvidence also suggests that the festival of Purim had been observed for some (before Ezra's return to Jerusalem see note on 8:12). TheĮarliest date for the book would be shortly after the events narrated, i.e.,Ĭ. In the land of Judah suggest that he was a resident of a Persian city. The author's knowledge of Persian customs, the setting of the story in theĬity of Susa and the absence of any reference to conditions or circumstances Of a Jewish festival and from the Jewish nationalism that permeates the story. It is clear that the author was a Jew, both from his emphasis on the origin It is possible to make some inferences about the author and the date of composition. Author and DateĪlthough we do not know who wrote the book of Esther, from internal evidence Theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Esther. When the day came, not only did the Jews join together, but government officials joined with them to help them defeat their enemies.Īfterwards, Mordecai and Esther established the Feast of Purim, a yearly celebration to remember their great victory.This summary of the book of Esther provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, Word was sent out to all the provinces that the Jews could gather together and defend themselves from anyone who attacked them. And they were happy to oblige.Įsther pleaded her case, and though the king was unable to undo a decree once it was proclaimed, he allowed Esther to make a counter proclamation. ![]() Again, she delayed, instead inviting the two of them to another feast the next day. Haman was summoned, and the two joined Esther for a banquet feast.Īt the feast, the king asked what it was she wanted. She invited the king and Haman to a dinner. He asked what it was she desired, promising her whatever she wished, up to half the kingdom.Įsther took her time, waiting for the right moment. At the end of the three days, she would go before the king, and if she died, so be it.įortunately, the king was in a good mood, so when he saw Esther standing in the court in her royal robes, he held out his scepter to welcome her in. Esther instructed Mordecai to gather up all the Jews and have them fast for three days, and she and her attendants would do the same. ![]()
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