The story of Purim is for anyone who may have thought that God has forgotten them. For anyone who may have concluded that they are fighting the fight all by themselves; here and more than in any other places in the Scriptures, God is never gone, He is so involved in the affairs of His people. The Book of Esther stands also as a prophecy which speaks of God’s love for Israel and for all, for all who made Yeshua Lord in their lives. Esther is then for you to know that He loves and protects you all the time, even though we may not always see Him.

Neatly tucked away between Nehemiah and Job, Purim celebrates the courage and faith displayed by Mordecai (from the tribe of Benjamin) and Queen Esther (they were cousins). It recognizes God’s continued faithfulness and promise of Jewish preservation. What makes the Book of Esther so unique is that the name of God is not mentioned even once throughout the entire story. While there are no O.T. references for the Book of Esther, there is one possible N.T. reference which demands a critical eye. This is found in John 5:1 “After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem”.  Some scholars say this verse can refer to Purim which would point to Yeshua having indeed celebrated this feast. How interesting, that this feast in John 5 is unnamed. Perhaps this is to keep in line with the fact that God is unnamed in the Book of Esther itself.

In spite of much scholarly criticism, we believe that the Book of Esther is a part of God’s inspired Word. There is historical data to authenticate this event, most of which centers around the information on Xerxes. Historical writings refer to his large harem in Shushan, his irrational temper and his drinking parties. On the flip side, there is no evidence from any other outside source to contradict this story.