Esther

The Book of Esther is a dramatic narrative set in the Persian capital of Susa during the exile, notable because it never explicitly mentions God, yet His providential guidance is clearly seen. The story revolves around a young Jewish woman named Esther, who is elevated to Queen of Persia. When the wicked official Haman plots to annihilate all the Jews throughout the empire, Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, encourages her to use her position to save her people. Facing death for approaching the King without permission, Esther bravely advocates for the Jews. The plot is thwarted, Haman is justly executed, and the Jews are saved, leading to the establishment of the Jewish holiday of Purim to commemorate their deliverance.