Author

Unknown

Written

~470–424 BC

Testament

Old Testament

Chapters

10

Key Theme

God's hidden providence protecting His people in a foreign land.

Written For

The Jewish diaspora community

Introduction of Esther

Esther is named after its remarkable Jewish heroine who rises to become queen of Persia. Likely written in the late 5th or 4th century BC, the book is set during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) and features Esther, her cousin Mordecai, and the villainous Haman. With no direct mention of God’s name, the story masterfully reveals divine providence working through courageous human choices. Facing a genocidal plot against the Jews, Esther must decide whether to risk everything to save her people. This dramatic tale of hidden purpose and unlikely deliverance stands as one of the Bible’s most suspenseful books.