EXPLORING THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams

Transcription

1 ( Queen Esther by Rae Chichilnitsky) Introductory Matters EXPLORING THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams The book of Esther is an anonymous Hebrew text. An early Jewish tradition asserts that the text we have is an edited version of the original produced by Mordecai. The edited version was probably produced in the 4th century BCE. The events in the book occur during the reign of King Ahasuerus, who has been variously identified with the Persian kings Xerxes I (r BCE), his son Artaxerxes I (r BCE), or perhaps his grandson, Artaxerxes II (r BCE). The action is located in the city of Susa, one of the oldest known human settlements in the ancient near east. It was settled more than 6000 years ago, and emerged as the capital of the region. Throughout its history it was at different times under the control of Elamites, Sumerians and Akkadians. It was plundered by Babylonians and burned to the ground by Assyrians. It became part of the Persian empire in 540 BCE. It was rebuilt and became one of the four administrative centers of the 1

2 Persian Empire, and the king s winter residence. In the Bible, Susa is also identified as the home of Daniel and Nehemiah. The Persian Empire was the largest empire in ancient history. At its peak it ruled 44% of the entire world s population. It operated through a centralized, bureaucratic administration headed by the king, a system of roads, a highly efficient postal service, and a common language (Aramaic). The religion of the Persian kings was Zoroastrianism, i.e. the teachings of a Persian prophet named Zoroaster (or Zarathustra). He main points of his teaching include: Ahura Mazda, the wise Lord//Lord of light, the sole creator and lord of the world Amesha Spentas, the bountiful immortals, spirit/angelic beings, agents of Ahura Mazda Angra Mainyu a.k.a. Ahriman, the spirit of evil, opponent of Ahura Mazda the conflict between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu would last 6000 years and would culminate in the resurrection of all the living and their judgment. humans are called to make the world progress towards perfection through their good thoughts, good words, good deeds The Persian kings tolerated and supported the local religions of the peoples they ruled, providing resources to restore temples, supplying money for sacrifices, and requiring their officials to attend local religious festivals. How did Jews like Esther and Mordecai end up in the Persian Empire? 597 BCE - Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon besieged Jerusalem, killed King Jehoiakim, and took captive King Jeconiah, his court and others, deporting them to Babylon. 587/586 BCE - Nebuchadnezzar s armies destroy the city of Jerusalem and took approximately 20,000 Jews captive (25% of the entire population) and forcibly deported them to Babylon. 582 BCE - a third deportation of Jews occurred. 539 BCE - King Cyrus of Persia conquered the Babylonian empire, and gave permission and financial support for various enslaved peoples, including the Jews, to return to their homelands. About 40,000 Jews returned to Judah in the years following. many Jews, no longer captives, found work in this new bureaucracy, rising high in the civil service, the military, and in commerce. 2

3 READ ESTHER 1: How might we summarize what happens in this chapter? 2. What are the issues? How are they relevant to modern women? READ ESTHER 2: How might we describe Esther s life story as it unfolds in this chapter? 2. Why does she not reveal her identity as a Jew? 3. The palace gate is not just a location but Mordecai s official position at the king s court, indicates that he is a member of the king s secret police. How does this work to Mordecai s advantage? What is the king s response to his good work? READ ESTHER 3:1-15 NB. Haman is described as the Agagite, i.e. a descendant of Agag, the Amalekite king responsible for Saul s loss of the kingship (1 Samuel 15:8). The ancient enmity between Israel and Amalek informs the relationship between Haman and Mordecai. Mordecai s refusal to bow to Haman is based on ethnic grounds: it is a refusal to give honor to one of Israel s enemies. Some rabbinic commentaries suggest that Haman was wearing an image of an idol on his chest, by bowing to him, Mordecai would have been bowing to the idol. 1. What are the issues that arise in this chapter? 2. Where do we see similar issues in our own time and culture? 3

4 EXPLORING THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams INTRODUCTION The book of Esther is a 4th century BCE historical novella set in the previous century, during the reign of King Ahasuerus, who has been identified as either Xerxes I (r BCE), Artaxerxes I (r BCE) or Artaxerxes II (r BCE). Chapter 1 King Ahasuerus, who rules an empire of 127 provinces from Ethiopia to India, hosts a 180 day celebration, at the end of which he hosts a banquet (read: drinking party) for the male residents of the citadel of Susa. Queen Vashti hosts a separate banquet for the women (1:9). On the 7th day, the drunken king orders the queen to appear before him so that her beauty may be displayed before the gathering. Vashti refuses. The king is enraged. His officials encourage him to depose her, and issue a decree that all women will honor their husbands// every man should be master in his own house (1:20, 22). Issues raised: The right of women/wives to refuse to be treated as objects of beauty or sexual allure. Men s (drunken) fears that Queen Vashti s refusal will set an example for all women to disobey/show contempt toward their husbands & resulting (mis)use of authority. Chapter 2 The king appoints a commission to gather all the beautiful young virgins in the empire to the citadel at Susa (a task that takes several years). We meet Mordecai, a descendant of Jews brought as captives to Susa, and his cousin/adopted daughter Hadassah/Esther. She is taken into the harem, and wins the favor of the head eunuch, who provides her with beauty treatments, food, 7 maids and the best rooms. Esther s date with the king occurs in the 7th year of Ahasuerus reign, and results in her being made queen, honored, and celebrated with a banquet. Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king. Issues raised: Status of women and roles available to them: wives concubines slaves. Chapter 3 Mordecai s refusal to bow down before Haman enrages the king s favorite official, leading him to instigate an order for the massacre of all the Jews in the empire on a specific day. Issues raised: Tribal & religious prejudices between Mordecai (a Jew) and Haman (an Amalekite). Corruption and abuse of power: Haman bribes the king with 10,000 talents of silver to set in motion the destruction of the Jews. 4

5 READ ESTHER 4: Tearing of one s clothes, wearing sackcloth (a coarse fabric made of black goat s hair), sitting in and/or putting ashes on one s head were all signs of grief, distress, debasement, and/or repentance, often accompanied by wailing and lamentation. Here these actions also function as a public protest. 2. The harem which initially functioned as a place of luxury and indulgence for Esther now becomes a place of constriction. She cannot leave. Even though she has been crowned queen, she does not have free access to the king. In fact, he has not called for her in 30 days 3. What are Esther s choices? How does she prepare herself once she had made her decision? 4. What issues are raised in this chapter? READ ESTHER 5: Esther sets her plan in motion. Why does she invite the king and Haman to a banquet, not just once but twice? 2. How does Haman interpret the queen s invitations? How does Mordecai s behavior put a damper on his spirits? 3. What issues are being played out here? READ ESTHER 6: How is Mordecai saved from the fate that Haman is preparing for him? 2. The ceremony Haman designs goes way beyond conventional ways of honoring those whom the king favors. It is calculated to make the honoree (Haman) appear to be the king. Asking to be dressed in royal robes that had actually been worn by the king, and to ride the king s horse with a crown on its head, was tantamount asking for the kingship, and betray Haman s desire to replace the king. But what does the king order Haman to do? What is Haman s response? 3. What issues are being played out here? 5

6 EXPLORING THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams INTRODUCTION The book of Esther is a 4th century BCE historical novella set in the previous century, during the reign of King Ahasuerus, who could be either Xerxes or one of the Artaxerxes. Chapters 1-3 The story of Esther begins when Queen Vashti is deposed for refusing to appear before the King Ahasuerus s drunken guests. The official search for her replacement results in Esther s entry into the harem where she is groomed and pampered, has her date night with the king, and becomes the new queen. In the meantime: (1) her cousin Mordecai who is a member of the king s secret police uncovers a plot to assassinate the king; and (2) refuses to bow before Haman the king s favorite official. Haman bribes the king into ordered the massacre of all the Jews in his empire on a single day. Chapters 4-6 Mordecai appears at the palace gates in sackcloth and ashes. Through servants he presents the evidence of Haman s bribery and the king s edict against the Jews to Esther. She determines to seek an audience with the king even if it means losing her life. She appears uninvited in the king s chambers, is allowed to speak, and invites him and Haman to a banquet. When the king asks what she wants from him, she invites him and Haman to a second banquet. Haman returns home boasting about his wealth, status, royal favor, but is enraged by Mordecai s continuing refusal to acknowledge him. His wife encourages him to have Mordecai hanged, he orders a gallows/stake erected. That night, the sleepless king has read to him the book of records and is reminded that Mordecai uncovered the assassination plot but was never rewarded. Early in the morning Haman appears seeking the king s approval for Mordecai s execution, but before he can get a word out, the king asks him what he should to honor someone for special service. Haman, recommends a public display of royal honors wearing the king s robe and riding his horse. The king orders Haman to arrange for Mordecai to be honored in this way. Haman hurries home with his head covered, humiliated, enraged, and grieving. Issues Raised the status, roles and rights of women in patriarchal cultures tribal/ethnic/religious prejudice and hostility abuse of power, e.g. bribing the king, using one s official position & authority to oppress personal/tribal enemies personal greed for wealth, status, power the challenges of leadership whether the world s largest empire or any large institution 6

7 READ ESTHER 6:14-7:10 1. Esther s case against Haman both spins his original accusation against the Jews and quotes the edict that he had written. Esther s Words in Chapter 7 Haman s Words in Chapter 3 we have been sold, I and my people (v. 4) to be destroyed, to be killed, and to be annihilated (v. 4) I will pay ten thousand talents of silver (v.9) letters were sent giving orders to destroy, to kill, and to annihilate all Jews (v.13) if we had been merely sold as slaves (v.4) Here Esther is subtly recasting Haman s offer of money as treason. An entire people could become enslaved only if another political entity conquered them. The implication is that Haman was attempting to conquer the king s loyal subjects. 2. Haman s attempt to beg for his life is misinterpreted as an assault on Esther (more irony) Verse 8: As the words left the mouth of the king, they covered Haman s face. An alternative translation reads, No sooner did these words leave the king s lips than Haman s face was covered. The Jewish Study Bible editors note: the meaning of the Hebrew is unclear, and suggest that it might be emended to read blanched (i.e. turned white/pale as a ghost). READ ESTHER 8: The king gifts Esther with all of Haman s property, which she places in the hands of her cousin Mordecai. As a woman, even a queen, she would not have been able to manage her own property. All legal and commercial transactions had to be handled by a male. Esther s status enables her to choose her own kinsman as her legal guardian/agent. 2. From verse 8, we learn that an edict sealed with the king s signet ring cannot be revoked. This means that the edict Haman dictated and sealed with the king s ring there is a certain people in all the provinces and they do not keep the king s laws (v.8) Haman suggests that the Jews are traitors to the king. (3:12-13) cannot be revoked. It has to be countermanded by another edict which permits the Jews to respond to anyone who attacks them believing they are following the king s wishes. READ ESTHER 9: Are the Jews acting in self-defense or seeking revenge? Why do they not touch the plunder, i.e. the property of their enemies (verses 10, 15, 16)? What does that suggest about their motives? 7

8 READ ESTHER 9:18-32 The festival of Purim from the word pur (which means lot ) because Haman had cast lots to determine the day on which the Jews were to be annihilated the thirteenth day of Adar (3:7; 9:17). Hence the festival is celebrated on the 14th and 15th days of Adar - usually in the month of March, always one month before Passover. This year the festival begins at sunset on March 4 and ends at nightfall on March 5. The festival of Purim is preceded by a minor fast, commemorating Esther s 3 day fast (4:15). The day is celebrated by a reading, re-telling or dramatization of the story of Esther, often referred to as the Megillah. It is customary to boo, hiss, stamp one s feet, or shake rattles whenever the name of Haman occurs during the reading. Customs include: giving gifts of food (e.g. hamentaschen cookies) and drink, as well as gifts to charity. eat, drink and be merry, specifically to to drink until you cannot tell the difference between "cursed be Haman" and "blessed be Mordecai but without becoming so drunk that you violate other commandments or get seriously ill. hold plays, parodies, parades, and beauty contests: the Jewish Mardi Gras. READ ESTHER 10:1-3 And they all lived happily ever after 8

9 INTRODUCTORY MATTERS EXPLORING LATER GREEK ADDITIONS TO THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams By the time of Alexander the Great ( BCE), the majority of Jews no longer lived in Judea (Israel) but were spread throughout the Mediterranean region. The first language of these Diaspora (i.e. dispersed) Jewish populations was a form of Greek called Koine (common). Many didn t speak Hebrew at all. Consequently between BCE Jewish scholars living in Alexandria, Egypt, began translating the Hebrew Scriptures into Koine Greek to enable Diaspora Jews to read their own Scriptures. This translation is called the Septuagint (sometime abbreviated LXX) because, according to legend, King Ptolemy II commissioned 70 or 72 scholars to do this work. The LXX became the primary Greek translation of the Old Testament (a.k.a. the Greek Old Testament). It is quoted extensively in the writings of the New Testament, the Apostolic Fathers and later Greek Church Fathers. The Greek version of Esther, describes itself as being brought to Egypt sometime in the mid-first century BCE (Addition F, 11.1). It was probably composed sometime between BCE. The Greek version of Esther is significantly longer than the book of Esther in Hebrew. It contains both subtle changes from the Hebrew original as well as entire blocks of material that are referred to as Additions to Esther. In the 5th century CE, when a Latin translation of Esther was made from the original Hebrew, these additions were tacked on to the end. In the middle ages when chapter and verse divisions were added to the Latin translation. These additions were numbered consecutively as if they were a direct continuation of the Hebrew text. This can be really confusing We will be looking at the Additions to Esther, indicating where they would fit into the story as we know it, and asking what issues are raised, etc. THE TEXT OF ADDITION A (wrongly numbered chapters 11 & 12, these incidents occur before the 1st chapter of the original book of Esther) 11 2 In the second year of the reign of Artaxerxes the Great, on the first day of Nisan, Mordecai son of Jair son of Shimei son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, had a dream. 3 He was a Jew living in the city of Susa, a great man, serving in the court of the king. 4 He was one of the captives whom King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had brought from Jerusalem with King Jeconiah of Judea. And this was his dream: 5 Noises and confusion, thunders and earthquake, tumult on the earth 6 Then two great dragons came forward, both ready to fight, and they roared terribly. 7 At their roaring every nation prepared for war, to fight against the righteous nation. 8 It was a day of darkness and gloom, of tribulation and distress, affliction and great tumult on the earth 9 And the whole righteous nation was 9

10 troubled; they feared the evils that threatened them, and were ready to perish. 10 Then they cried out to God; and at their outcry, as though from a tiny spring, there cam a great river, with abundant water; 11 light came, and the sun rose, and the lowly were exalted and devoured those held in honor. 12 Mordecai saw in this dream what God had determined to do, and after he awoke he had it on his mind, seeking all day to understand it in every detail. 12 Now Mordecai took his rest in the courtyard where Gabatha and Tharra, the two eunuchs of the king who kept watch in the courtyard. 2 He overheard their conversation and inquired into their purposes, and learned that they were preparing to lay hands on King Artaxerxes; and he informed the king concerning them. 3 Then the king examined the two eunuchs, and after they had confessed it, they were led away to execution. 4 The king made a permanent record of these things, and Mordecai wrote an account of them. 5 And the king ordered Mordecai to serve in the court, and rewarded him for these things. 6 But Haman son of Hammadatha, a Bougean, who was in great honor with the king, determined to injure Mordecai and his people because of the two eunuchs of the king. Historical Details/Problems The Greek text identifies the king as Artaxerxes. This could be either Artaxerxes I (r BCE) or Artaxerxes II (r BCE). In verse 4, the author identifies Mordecai as one of the exiles brought to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar in 597 BCE. This is not historically possible in the story occurs at least 133 years or as long as 194 years after the exile. More correctly, Mordecai was a descendant of exiles brought to Babylon in the previous century. Haman is identified here as a Bougean. No one knows what it means, but the suspicion is that it is not intended to be complimentary. Discussion Questions 1. What does the dream suggest about the character of Mordecai? 2. Does the dream remind you of any other type of literature/story in the Bible? 3. What do Mordecai s actions with respect to the two eunuchs tell us about his character? 4. How does Addition A change the story of Esther? 10

11 INTRODUCTORY MATTERS EXPLORING LATER GREEK ADDITIONS TO THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams Addition A consists of new (i.e. late 2nd/early first century BCE) introduction to the book of Esther. The story is cast as occurring beginning in the second year of the reign of Artaxerxes the Great. This could be either Artaxerxes 1 (r BCE) or Artaxerxes II (r BCE). The lead character is Mordecai who is presented as a prophetic or visionary character. His dream of darkness, storms and dragons giving way to abundant water and light foreshadows what will happen in the book of Esther. At the time he doesn t know this but ponders what the dream might mean. While taking his rest in the palace courtyard Mordecai overhears two eunuchs talking. He enters into conversation with them and discovers that they are plotting to assassinate the king. Mordecai informs the king. The eunuchs are interrogated, confess and are executed. Mordecai is rewarded with a promotion. Haman determines to find a way to injure Mordecai and his people because of what happened to the eunuchs. Was Haman in cahoots with the eunuchs? The story then unfolds more or less as in the Hebrew version: the king s banquet in the 3 rd year of his reign and dismissal of Queen Vashti (chapter 1) the collecting of beautiful and virtuous girls for the harem in Susa, after a year of beauty treatments Esther becomes queen (it is now the 7th year of Artaxerxes reign), Mordecai uncovers a plot against the king by eunuchs who were angry because of Mordecai s promotion (chapter 2) the king promotes Haman, Mordecai refuses to do obeisance to Haman, enraged Haman begins to plot against Mordecai s whole race, finally in the 12th year of the king s reign he goes to the king and wins his support to destroy the Jews on the 14th day of Adar. THE TEXT OF ADDITION B consists of The King s Letter (in error numbered as chapter 13). 13 This is a copy of the letter: The Great King, Artaxerxes, writes the following to the governors of the hundred and twenty-seven provinces from India to Ethiopia and to the officials under them: 2 Having become ruler of many nations and master of the whole world (not elated with presumption of authority but always acting reasonably and with kindness), I have determined to settle the lives of my subjects in lasting tranquility and, in order to make my kingdom peaceable and open to travel throughout all its extent, to restore the peace desired by all people. 11

12 3 When I asked my counselors how this might be accomplished, Haman who excels among us in sound judgment, and is distinguished for his unchanging goodwill and steadfast fidelity, and has attained the second place in the kingdom 4 pointed out to us that among all the nations in the world there is scattered a certain hostile people, who have laws contrary to those of every nation and continually disregard the ordinances of kings, so that the unifying of the kingdom that we honorably intend cannot be brought about. 5 We understand that this people, and it alone, stands constantly in opposition to every nation, perversely following a strange manner of life and laws, and is ill-disposed to our government, doing all the harm they can so that our kingdom may not attain stability. 6 Therefore we have decreed that those indicated to you in the letters written by Haman, who is in charge of affairs and is our second father, shall all wives and children included be utterly destroyed by the swords of their enemies, without pity or restraint, on the fourteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar, of this present year, 7 so that those who have long been hostile and remain so many in a single day go down in violence to Hades, and leave our government completely secure and untroubled hereafter. Discussion The Jews were discriminated against and persecuted for the following reasons: They were a minority: 5-8% of the overall population, in some cities like Alexandria or Antioch perhaps as much as 20-25% of the population They worshipped only one god who was not only invisible, but of whom there were no images unlike their neighbors who worshipped many gods that were represented by statues, icons, pictures, etc. They refused to acknowledge the gods of their neighbors as real gods and to participate in their worship and festivals. This was regarded as inhospitable, anti-social, and even atheistic. They did no work on the Sabbath. This was regarded as a sign of laziness. The practice of male circumcision was viewed with suspicion and hostility by some other groups. They tended not to intermarry with non-jews. Kosher food laws made dining with non- Jews difficult if not impossible. Thus they were labeled as haters of humanity. Why do we discriminate against and persecute people who are different? The story continues as in the Hebrew version with Mordecai, dressed in sackcloth camping outside the king s gate. Esther sends hers eunuch to go find out what is happening. He does. Mordecai gives him a copy of the king s letter, explains about Haman s bribery, and requests that she seek an audience with the king. Esther response is that the king has not asked for her company in 30 days (i.e. she is out of favor) and to enter the king s presence uninvited is to invite immediate execution. Mordecai encourages her, and she finally consents but asks Mordecai and all the Jews in Susa to fast for her and with her for three days (chapter 4). 12

13 THE TEXT OF ADDITION C consists of Mordecai s and Esther s prayers while fasting (in error numbered as chapters 13-14) 8 Then Mordecai prayed to the Lord, calling remembrance all the works of the Lord. 9 He said O Lord, Lord, you rule as King over all things, for the universe is in your power and there is no one who can oppose you when it is your will to save Israel, 10 for you have made heaven and earth and every wonderful thing under heaven. 11 You are Lord of all, and there is no one who can resist you, the Lord. 12 You know all things; you know, O Lord, that it was not in insolence or pride or for any love of glory that I did this, and refused to bow down to this proud Haman; 13 for I would have been willing to kiss the soles of his feet to save Israel 14 But I did this so that I might not set human glory above the glory of God, and I will not bow down to anyone but you, who are my Lord; and I will not do these things in pride. 15 And now, O Lord God and King, God of Abraham, spare your people; for the eyes of our foes are upon us to annihilate us, and they desire to destroy the inheritance that has been yours from the beginning. 16 Do not neglect your portion, which you redeemed for yourself out of the land of Egypt. 17 Hear my prayer, and have mercy upon your inheritance; turn our mourning into feasting that we may live and sing praise to your name, O Lord; do not destroy the lips of those who praise you. 18 And all Israel cried out mightily, for their death was before their eyes. 14 Then Queen Esther, seized with deadly anxiety, fled to the Lord. 2 She took off her splendid apparel and put on the garments of distress and mourning, and instead of costly perfumes she covered her head with ashes and dung, and she utterly humbled her body; every part that she loved to adorn she covered with her tangled hair. 3 She prayed to the Lord God of Israel, and said: O my Lord, you only are our king; help me, who am alone and have no helper but you, 4 for my danger is in my hand. 5 Ever since I was born I have heard in the tribe of my family that you, O Lord, took Israel out of all the nations, and our ancestors from among all their forebears, for an everlasting inheritance, and that you did for them all that you promised. 6 And now we have sinned before you, and you have handed us over to our enemies 7 because we glorified their gods. You are righteous, O Lord 8 And now they are not satisfied that we are in bitter slavery, but they covenanted with their idols 9 to abolish what your mouth has ordained, and to destroy your inheritance, to stop the mouths of those who praise you and to quench your altar and the glory of your house, 10 to open the mouths of the nations for the praise of vain idols, and to magnify forever a mortal king. 11 O Lord, do not surrender your scepter to what has no being; and do not let them laugh at our downfall; but turn their plan against them, and make an example of him who began this against us. 12 Remember, O Lord; make yourself known in this time of our affliction, and give me courage, O King of the gods and Master of all dominion 13 Put eloquent speech in my mouth before the lion, and turn his heart to hate the man who is fighting against us, so that there may be an end of him and those who agree with him. 14 But save us by your hand and help me, who am alone and have no helper but you, O Lord. 15 You have knowledge of all things, and you know that I hate the splendor of the wicked and abhor the bed of the uncircumcised and of any alien. 16 You know my necessity that I abhor the sign of my proud position, which is upon my head on days when I appear in public. I abhor it like a filthy rag, and I do not wear it on the days when I am at leisure. 17 And your servant has not eaten at Haman s table, and I have not honored the king s feast or drunk the wine of 13

14 libations. 18 Your servant has had no joy since the day that I was brought here until now, except in you, O Lord God of Abraham. 19 O God, whose might is over all, hear the voice of the despairing, and save us from the hands of evildoers. And save me from my fear Discussion 1. What do we learn about Mordecai his character, his beliefs, his faith from his prayer? 2. What do we learn about Esther her character, her beliefs, her faith from her prayer? 14

15 INTRODUCTORY MATTERS EXPLORING LATER GREEK ADDITIONS TO THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams I recently discovered Lilian Broca s series Queen Esther Mosaics, and am including pictures of the mosaics together with the artist s explanation of each, interspersed with reminders of the texts we have read. Esther s Offering: shows the image of young Esther at just that fateful moment when her name is called the winner, the future Queen. She appears frightened but determined in her elegant white dress, the symbol of purity of heart and soul. Curtseying to the king she raises the handkerchief with her name thus providing identity and submission to the King s will. The royal appointment was in the form of a competition amongst many young virgins, all beautiful and young. These girls were selected amongst hundreds of others to be worthy of the King s attention. Only one would become Queen of Persia. Her handkerchief reads Esther in Farsi. Esther, who reluctantly participated in this competition under the firm pressure of her uncle Mordecai, in one pivotal moment sees her future completely changed. Addition B consisted of The King s Letter. This is the letter that Artaxerxes wrote at the behest of Haman authorizing the destruction of all Jews in his empire. The Jews are described as a people whose laws are contrary to that of every other nation. Their obedience to those laws results in disregard for the laws of kings, and presents an obstacle to the unification of Artaxerxes empire. The destruction of the Jews will allegedly promote unification. Mordecai sends a copy of this letter to Esther through her eunuch, so that she is fully and accurately informed about what is happening. Queen Esther Holding Evidence of Haman s Guilt: depicts a frightened Queen Esther is carefully making her way to her quarters hoping no one is following her. In her hands she holds the scroll with Haman s order for all Israelites execution on a certain date. This massacre would obliterate the entire Hebrew lineage from the face of the earth. The comparatively few Israelites who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple as Cyrus ordered them to do a few years earlier would not have been enough to survive and continue the Judaeo-Christian lineage. Therefore, Queen Esther s task to stop the genocide is of huge importance. She must devise a strategic plan for a 15

16 successful outcome. Her timing and appearance must be impeccable. Addition C consists of the prayers offered by Mordecai and Esther (separately) during their 3 day fast. Both prayers are conversations with God in which the prayerer bares his/ her soul and deepest thoughts to God. Mordecai justifies his refusal to bow down to Haman as emerging out of his devotion to God, not wanting to elevate any human being above God, rather than personal insolence, pride or glory. Esther s prayer reveals her sense of isolation in the harem: help me, who am alone and have no helper but you (14:3, 14). She confesses how much she abhors the splendor of the palace and having share the bed of an uncircumcised king. Her crown which is the sign of her proud position is like a dirty rag to her. She has remained faithful to God by avoiding eating at Haman s table and the king s feast, not drinking the wine of libations. Esther s prayer reveals to us a woman who is struggling to survive in a situation that she did not choose, and which threatens the integrity of her faith. Queen Esther: portrays the rich young Esther, whose hands are tied when it comes to approaching her husband with such a serious accusation and extraordinary request. Despite all the riches available to her in her new life, Esther is a tragic figure in the midst of Persian harem women who aren t aware that she doesn t share their cultural roots. As she is sworn to secrecy in regards to her belonging to the Israelite minority group, Esther must pretend otherwise day after day in the King s harem where she spends most of her time. The songs, dances, music and stories that encompass the concubines daily activities must be a sad reminder of her own culture left behind. The mosaic image of young Esther from the knees down slowly dissolves into a black and white line drawing of bare legs and feet. This symbolizes Esther s poor origins. Her toes are intertwined with the wrought iron bars, usually part of the ancient architecture of women s quarters window coverings. The iron bars symbolize women s status as rich men s assets that need to be protected against theft or defilement. THE TEXT OF ADDITION D consists of Esther s appearance before the king (wrongly numbered Chapter 15) On the third day, when she ended her prayer, she took off the garments in which she had worshiped, and arrayed herself in splendid attire. 2 Then, majestically adorned, after invoking the aid of the all-seeing God and Savior, she took two maids with her; 3 on one she leaned gently for support, 4 while the other followed, carrying her train. 5 She was radiant with perfect beauty, and she looked happy, as if beloved, but her heart was frozen with fear. 6 When she had gone through all the doors, she stood before the king. He was seated on his royal throne, clothed in the full array of his majesty, all covered with gold and precious stones. He was most terrifying. 7 Lifting his face, flushed with splendor, he looked at her in fierce anger. The queen faltered, and turned pale and faint, and collapsed on the head of the maid who sent in front of her. 8 16

17 Then God changed the spirit of the king to gentleness, and in alarm he sprang from his throne and took her in his arms until she came to herself. He comforted her with soothing words, and said to her, 9 What is it, Esther? I am your husband. Take courage; 10 You shall not die, for our law applies only to our subjects. Come near. 11 Then he raised the golden scepter and touched her neck with it; 12 he embraced her and said, Speak to me. 13 She said to him, I saw you, my lord, like an angel of God, and my heart was shaken with fear at your glory. 14 For you are wonderful, my lord, and your countenance is full of grace. 15 And while she was speaking, she fainted and fell. 16 Then the king was agitated, and all his servants tried to comfort her. Discussion: What does this addition add to the story of Esther? What is revealed about Esther and her relationship with the king? The story then picks up at the beginning of chapter 5 with the king asking Esther, What do you wish, Esther? What is your request? It shall be given you, even to half of my kingdom. Esther invites the king and Haman to dine with her. They do, so and the king asks again what she wants. She invites the king and Haman to dine again with her the following day. 17

18 In the meantime, Haman has come up with a plot to get rid of Mordecai. He is so confident of success that he actually orders the construction of a gallows. During the night the sleepless king discovers that Mordecai had not been rewarded for uncovering the second assassination plot and determines to reward him. When Haman arrives first thing in the morning, he asks him how he would reward someone special. Haman leading Mordecai on the Royal Horse: depicts the reward bestowed upon Mordecai for his loyalty to the King. In a farcical turn of events, Haman, who believed he was the recipient of such tribute, suggested that the winner ride the Royal Horse wearing the Royal Crown and rich vestments, while holding the King s Scepter. The winner would be led around town to allow the public to rightfully honor such a loyal subject. As events unfolded, Mordecai was the winner, not Haman. With the tables turned and to Haman s distress, he was forced to lead the public procession. Haman goes immediately from this humiliating parade to the second of Queen Esther s second banquet. Here is the very tense scene of the banquet of King Artaxerxes, Queen Esther and the evil Haman. Esther is pointing at Haman accusing him of the plot of planning a true genocide in the kingdom. The royals are staring at the unseen Haman, the King with a doubtful look on his inebriated face and Queen Esther with a determined and accusatory stare. 18

19 INTRODUCTORY MATTERS EXPLORING LATER GREEK ADDITIONS TO THE BOOK OF ESTHER with Pastor Ritva H. Williams We have been examining the 6 additions to the Greek version of the book of Esther, and reflecting on what they add to the story: Addition A - Mordecai s Dream presents Mordecai as a prophetic or visionary character. His dream of darkness, storms and dragons giving way to abundant water and light foreshadows what will happen. While pondering the meaning of his dream, Mordecai overhears two eunuchs plotting to assassinate the king. Mordecai informs the king. The eunuchs are interrogated, confess and are executed. Mordecai is rewarded with a promotion. Haman determines to find a way to injure Mordecai and his people. Addition B - The King s Letter is written at the behest of Haman authorizing the destruction of all Jews in the empire. The Jews are described as a people whose laws are contrary to that of every other nation. Their obedience to those laws results in disregard for the laws of kings, and presents an obstacle to the unification of Artaxerxes empire. Mordecai sends a copy of this letter to Esther through her eunuch, so that she is fully and accurately informed about what is happening. Addition C - The Prayer of Mordecai reveals the reason he refuses to bow down to Haman as emerging out of his devotion to God, not wanting to elevate any human being above God, rather than personal insolence, pride or glory. The Prayer of Esther reveals her sense of isolation in the harem: help me, who am alone and have no helper but you (14:3, 14). She confesses how much she abhors the splendor of the palace and having share the bed of an uncircumcised king. Her crown which is the sign of her proud position is like a dirty rag to her. She has remained faithful to God by avoiding eating at Haman s table and the king s feast, not drinking the wine of libations. Addition D - Esther is Received by the King provides details about her preparations and her feelings: radiant with perfect beauty, and she looked happy, as if beloved, but her heart was frozen with fear. She faints at the sight of the king in his regal splendor. Artaxerxes is revealed to be concerned and caring of Esther s feelings, assuring her that she has nothing to fear from him. The Greek version unfolds as does the Hebrew version with the king and Haman being invited to dine with Esther on two consecutive days. At the second banquet, she indicts Haman for bribing the king into issuing the edict against the Jews. Haman is punished. Letters are sent rescinding Haman s orders. 19

20 Addition E - The Decree of Artaxerxes The following is a copy of this letter: The Great King, Artaxerxes, to the governors of the provinces from India to Ethiopia, one hundred twenty-seven provinces, and those who are loyal to our government, greetings. 2 Many people, the more they are honored with the most generous kindness of their benefactors, the more proud do they become, 3 and not only seek to injure our subjects, but in their inability to stand prosperity, they even undertake to scheme against their own benefactors. 4 They not only take away thankfulness from others, but, carried away by the boasts of those who know nothing of goodness, they even assume that they will escape the evil-hating justice of God, who always sees everything. 5 And often many of those who are set in places of authority have been made in part responsible for the shedding of innocent blood, and have been involved in irremediable calamities, by the persuasion of friends who have been entrusted with the administration of public affairs, 6 when these persons by the false trickery of their evil natures beguile the sincere goodwill of their sovereigns. 7 What has been wickedly accomplished through the pestilent behavior of those who exercise authority unworthily can be seen, not so much from the more ancient records that we hand on, as from investigation of matters close at hand. 8 In the future we will take care to render our kingdom quiet and peaceable for all, 9 by changing our methods and always judging what comes before our eyes with more equitable consideration. 10 For Haman son of Hammedatha, a Macedonian (really an alien to the Persian blood, and quite devoid of our kindliness), having become our guest, 11 enjoyed so fully the goodwill that we have for every nation that he was called our father and was continually bowed down to by all as the person second to the royal throne. 12 But unable to restrain his arrogance, he undertook to deprive us of our kingdom and our life, 13 and with intricate craft and deceit asked for the destruction of Mordecai, our savior and perpetual benefactor, and of Esther, the blameless partner of our kingdom, together with their whole nation. 14 He thought that by these methods he would catch us undefended and would transfer the kingdom of the Persians to the Macedonians. 15 But we find that the Jews, who were consigned to annihilation by this thrice-accursed man, are not evildoers, but are governed by most righteous laws 16 and are children of the living God, most high, most mighty, who has directed the kingdom both for us and for our ancestors in the most excellent order. 17 You will therefore do well not to put in execution the letters sent by Haman son of Hammedatha, 18 since he, the one who did these things, has been hanged at the gate of Susa with all his household for God, who rules over all things, has speedily inflicted on him the punishment he deserved. 19 Therefore post a copy of this letter publicly in every place, and permit the Jews to live under their own laws. 20 And give them reinforcements, so that on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar, on that very day, they may defend themselves against those who attack them at the time of oppression. 21 For God, who rules over all things, has made that day to be a joy for his chosen people instead of a day of destruction for them. 22 Therefore you shall observe this with all good cheer as a notable day among your commemorative festivals, 23 so that both now and hereafter it may represent deliverance for 20

21 you and the loyal Persians, but that it may be a reminder of destruction for those who plot against us. 24 Every city and country, without exception, that does not act accordingly shall be destroyed in wrath with spear and fire. It shall be made not only impassable for human beings, but also most hateful to wild animals and birds for all time. Mordecai showing Esther the King s Decree Discussion 1.According to this decree why was Haman executed? Why does the king say God inflicted the punishment? 2.Who is the living God, most high, most mighty that the king refers to? Is this the same God worshipped the Jews? NB. The religion of the Persian kings was Zoroastrianism, i.e. the teachings of a Persian prophet named Zoroaster (or Zarathustra). He main points of his teaching include: Ahura Mazda, the wise Lord//Lord of light, the sole creator and lord of the world Amesha Spentas, the bountiful immortals, spirit/angelic beings, agents of Ahura Mazda Angra Mainyu a.k.a. Ahriman, the spirit of evil, opponent of Ahura Mazda the conflict between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu would last 6000 years and would culminate in the resurrection of all the living and their judgment. humans are called to make the world progress towards perfection through their good thoughts, good words, good deeds After Addition E, the story continues recounting the victory of the Jews and the establishment of the festival of Purim, and concludes with the 6th and final addition. Addition F - Mordecai s Dream Fulfilled 4 And Mordecai said, These things have come from God; 5 for I remember the dream that I had concerning these matters, and none of them has failed to be fulfilled. 6 There was the little spring that became a river, and there was light and sun and abundant water the river is Esther, whom the king married and made queen. 7 The two dragons are Haman and myself. 8 The nations are those that gathered to destroy the name of the Jews. 9 And my nation, this is Israel, who cried out to God and was saved. The Lord has saved his people; the Lord has rescued us from all these evils; God has done great signs and wonders, wonders that have never happened among the nations. 10 For this purpose he made two lots, one for the people of God and one for all the nations, 11 and these two lots came to the hour and moment and day of decision before God and among all the nations. 12 And God remembered his people and vindicated his inheritance. 13 So they will observe these days in the month of 21

22 Adar, on the fourteenth and fifteenth of that month, with an assembly and joy and gladness before God, from generation to generation forever among his people Israel In the fourth year of the reign of Ptolemy and Cleopatra, Dositheus, who said that he was a priest and a Levite, and his son Ptolemy brought to Egypt the preceding letter about Purim, which they said was authentic and had been translated by Lysimachus son of Ptolemy, one of the residents of Jerusalem. Queen Esther with Scroll that records her story. Discussion 1.What does this concluding chapter add to the story? 2. The postscript indicates when the scroll of Esther came to Egypt, i.e. during the reign of Ptolemy and Cleopatra. A Bit of History: The Persian Empire 553 BCE - Cyrus the Great rebels against the Medes and establishes the Achaemenid Empire of Persia. In 539 BCE he conquered Babylon and allowed the captive Jews to return to their homeland; hence Cyrus is called Messiah in Isaiah 45: BCE - Xerxes I rules Persia (possibly Ahasuerus?) BCE - Artaxerxes I rules Persia. In 459/8 sent Ezra to take definitely sent Ezra to take charge of civil and religious affairs of Judea. In 445 BCE sent Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. (possibly Ahasuerus?) BCE - Artaxerxes II rules Persia (possibly Ahasuerus?) 330 BCE - Alexander the Great of Macedonia conquers Persia. His death in 323 BCE resulted in the division of his empire. Ptolemy, one of Alexander s 7 bodyguards/generals/ deputies became ruler of Egypt and established a dynasty of kings all named Ptolemy. 7 of 15 were married/co-rulers with women called Cleopatra, beginning with Ptolemy V who ruled from BCE and ending with Cleopatra VII who ruled from BCE together with Ptolemy XIII, Ptolemy XIV, Ptolemy XV, and Caesarion (her son by Julius Caesar). 22