Esther, also known by her Hebrew name Hadassah, was a Jewish queen of the Achaemenid Empire during the 6th century BC. As the heroine of the biblical Book of Esther, she rose to prominence after being chosen by King Ahasuerus to replace Queen Vashti. Initially concealing her Jewish identity at the guidance of her cousin Mordecai, she eventually risked her life by approaching the monarch to expose a plot by the vizier Haman. Her courageous intervention prevented the planned genocide of the Jewish people living within the Persian kingdom.
Life and narrative
Raised by her cousin Mordecai, Esther lived in the Persian period as part of the Jewish community. After becoming queen, she faced a crisis when Haman, the king's advisor, plotted to exterminate all Jews in the empire. Following a period of fasting and prayer, Esther revealed her heritage to Ahasuerus. This led to the execution of Haman and allowed the Jewish people to defend themselves against their enemies.
Veneration and legacy
The events surrounding her rescue of the Jewish people serve as the traditional basis for the holiday of Purim. In various Christian traditions, including Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and Lutheran, she is recognized as a saint. Her feast day is observed on July 1st.