Women in the Bible Series
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Part Three: The Story of Esther
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by Fr. Matthew Hawkins
The story of Esther in the Old Testament is one of remarkable courage, wisdom, and identity. Esther, a Jewish woman living in Persia, found herself thrust into a position of immense power and responsibility when she became queen. Yet, it was not her royal title that defined her actions, but her deep sense of identity as a Jewish woman and her commitment to her people. Through her story, we learn the power of embracing our true selves and using our influence to stand up for what is right, even in the face of danger.
Esther’s rise to queenship was unexpected. Orphaned and raised by her cousin Mordecai, she lived in a foreign land, concealing her Jewish identity as she entered the royal palace. Chosen to be queen by King Xerxes, Esther could have easily lived a life of luxury and isolation, disconnected from her people’s struggles. However, her true identity would soon be called upon in the most critical moment of her life.
Haman, a high-ranking official in the Persian court, devised a plot to exterminate all the Jews in the empire. Mordecai urged Esther to intervene, but doing so meant risking her life. Approaching the king without being summoned was punishable by death, yet Esther was faced with a choice: remain silent and protect her own life, or reveal her Jewish identity and stand up for her people. Mordecai’s words echoed in her heart: “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). This pivotal moment awakened Esther’s understanding of her purpose and identity.
Embracing her Jewish heritage, Esther devised a bold and strategic plan. She did not rush into the king’s presence with demands. Instead, she hosted a series of banquets, carefully cultivating an atmosphere of trust and favor. Her approach was as wise as it was brave, using patience and diplomacy to set the stage for her request. When the time was right, Esther revealed Haman’s evil plot and her own identity as a Jew. Moved by her courage and love for his queen, King Xerxes granted her plea, and the Jewish people were saved.
Esther’s bravery lay not only in her willingness to risk her life but in her strategic wisdom. She recognized the power of timing and preparation. Her ability to influence the king was rooted in the integrity of her character and the deep connection she maintained with her people despite her position in the royal court.
Esther’s story teaches us that our identity is crucial to our actions. She could have concealed her Jewishness, but instead, she embraced it, allowing it to guide her decisions and ultimately save her people. In our own lives, we are often faced with moments where our true identity is called into action. Esther challenges us to ask ourselves: Who are we, and how can we use our influence, however great or small, to bring about positive change?
Her story reminds us that we may find ourselves in difficult situations "for such a time as this," and our identity—whether it’s our faith, values, or sense of purpose—can give us the strength to act with courage, even in the face of great personal risk.
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