St. Paul’s Adult Forum
Spring 2008
Women of the Bible
Esther - April 27
Setting:
The story of Esther takes place during the period of time when the
Persians had taken over from the Babylonians (in the 5th century
BCE). The main characters, Esther and Mordecai, live in Persia. This means
they are in the diaspora, far from Israel and surrounded by people who are not
Jews. One aspect of this story is the issue of assimilation--how much
can/should the Jews (or any of us) give up our own ways in order to blend in
with the surrounding culture?
The Book of Esther:
The book itself was likely written in the 4th to early 3rd century (during the Hellenistic period). It showed positive relations between Jews and Gentiles, and therefore scholars believe it must have been written before the conflicts that came later in the 2nd century between the Greeks and the Maccabees. For various reasons, it took a long time before the book was accepted into the canon of the Hebrew Bible; it does not mention God and its hero does not follow Jewish law (Esther marries a non-Jew and does not follow Jewish dietary laws, for instance). On the other hand, it demonstrates the triumph of Esther and Mordecai in saving their people and standing up to foreign leaders in defense of their people and their religion.
As we work through the plot, let’s keep in mind the following questions:
 | What are Esther’s strengths? Weaknesses? |
| What methods does Esther use to accomplish her goals? |
| What is Mordecai’s character like? |
| How is the king of Persia portrayed? |
| What is Haman’s motive? How are his fortunes reversed? |
Purim:
The story of Esther is the motivation for the Jewish holiday of Purim (named for the casting of lots described in determining the date of the killing of the Jews). During this holiday (in later winter/early spring) the story of Esther is read in the synagogue, and people make noise to drown out Haman’s name each time it is read. People wear costumes and have a joyful feast. “Purim baskets” are often made to give to the needy.
For next week: Mary, mother of Jesus (see schedule for readings)