45. Esther: A Brave Queen to Save Her People (Esther 1-10)

Esther was a young Jewish orphan living in Persia under the care of her cousin Mordecai. Due to her beauty and grace, she was chosen to be the queen of King Ahasuerus. Despite her position, Esther kept her faith secret until a wicked official named Haman devised a plan to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom. At this critical moment, Mordecai asked Esther to intercede with the king, reminding her that perhaps she had come to the throne precisely for such a time as this.

With great courage—since appearing before the king without being summoned could be punished by death—Esther asked her people to pray and fast with her for three days. After this spiritual preparation, she presented herself to Ahasuerus and revealed Haman's plot. The king, listening to his wife, saved the Jewish people and punished the injustice. This victory is still celebrated today in the Jewish feast of Purim.

The figure of Esther teaches us that God acts through people willing to risk themselves for the good of others. She is a model of faith, inner beauty, and strength. Her story reminds us that prayer and sacrifice are powerful weapons against injustice and that each of us has a mission in the place where God has put us, to be instruments of His salvation and peace.

Key Points according to the Bible

Divine Providence: God guides events to protect His people.
The Weapon of Fasting and Prayer: Spiritual preparation before taking action.
Courage and Intercession: Esther risks her life to save others.
God's Justice: The wicked Haman falls into his own trap while the humble are exalted.

Biblical Text

Read the story of Queen Esther here: USCCB - Book of Esther

Reflection Activities: The Book of Esther

1. Text Comprehension: What was the danger threatening the Jewish people, and what difficult decision did Queen Esther have to make?

2. Doctrinal Content: What does the Book of Esther teach us about God's Providence (His discreet but constant presence in history)?

3. Catechetical Application: Esther requested three days of prayer and fasting. Why do you think it is important to put faith and one's relationship with God before making big decisions or taking action?

4. Faith Commitment: Mordecai tells Esther she is queen "for such a time as this." In what current situation in your life do you feel God is asking you to be brave to defend someone or do what is right?