Esther

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Esther, originally named Hadassah, was a young Jewish woman living in the Persian Empire during the 5th century BCE. She was raised by her cousin Mordechai after being orphaned at a young age. Esther's Jewish identity was central to who she was, although she kept it secret when she was brought to the palace. She lived during a time when Jews were a minority in exile, scattered throughout the vast Persian kingdom. Her early life reflected both vulnerability and resilience — a Jewish girl navigating a foreign land, while holding tightly to her faith and heritage. 

Esther’s greatest act of courage came when she was chosen to be queen by King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I), unaware of her Jewish background. When a royal decree was issued to exterminate all Jews in the empire — led by the king’s advisor Haman — Esther risked her life by revealing her identity to the king and pleading for her people. By approaching the king without being summoned, Esther broke palace protocol, which could have led to her execution. Her bravery and wisdom led to the reversal of the genocidal decree and saved the Jewish people from destruction. This pivotal event is remembered each year during the holiday of Purim.  

Esther's story has echoed through history as a symbol of courage, identity, and standing up for what is right, even in the face of grave danger. She is celebrated as a heroine in Jewish tradition and is one of the few women to have a biblical book named after her. The story of Esther teaches the importance of speaking up against injustice, using one's position to help others, and embracing one's identity. Her legacy is especially powerful for women and marginalized communities, serving as a reminder that one person — even a young woman in a patriarchal society — can make a world-changing difference. 

• Heroine who saved the Jewish people from annihilation in ancient Persia
   
• Namesake of the biblical Book of Esther, one of the five Megillot (scrolls) in the Hebrew Bible
   
• Role model of courage, wisdom, and faith
   
• Central figure of the Jewish festival Purim, celebrated with joy, community, and giving to others
   
• One of the few women in the Bible to influence major political and spiritual events
   
• Embodiment of hidden strength and divine providence (even though God's name is not mentioned in the Book of Esther)

Unscramble the words:

1. HEMAN → __________
    
2. SUHEARUSA → __________
    
3. ADHASSAH → __________
    
4. RIUMP → __________
    
5. GEHIMLLA → __________

Ask students to reflect:

“What does Esther’s story teach us about standing up for others, even when it’s risky?”
Encourage them to write a short paragraph or create a comic strip showing Esther’s key moment of bravery.