Esther saves her people

The Book of Esther is a political satire about the folly of giving too much power to a king or leader, who may well turn out to be a fool. It is racy, dramatic, entertaining – and could actually be classed as a  historical  novel.

Its theme is one that has been all too consistent in Jewish history – the struggle to survive against terrible odds. 

The king is erratic, foolish, not wise and considered. Again and again, he makes impulsive decisions based on emotion, rather than careful judgments. Because of this impulsiveness, the people in his court are able to manipulate him.

This taps into a theme dating back to King David: leaders are necessary, but they are only human, so their powers must be strictly limited.

See Esther – her story