Introduction:
Hadassah is the Hebrew name of Queen Esther, a central figure in the biblical Book of Esther. Her account is one of courage, faith, and divine providence, as she plays a pivotal role in the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them. The name "Hadassah" means "myrtle," a plant known for its fragrance and beauty, symbolizing righteousness.

Biblical Account:
Hadassah, also known as Esther, was a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai in the Persian Empire during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). Her account is recounted in the Book of Esther, where she is introduced as a young woman of exceptional beauty and grace. When King Ahasuerus seeks a new queen, Esther is taken to the royal palace and eventually chosen to be queen, though her Jewish identity remains a secret.

The narrative unfolds with the rise of Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king's court, who harbors a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devises a plan to destroy all the Jews in the empire. Mordecai learns of this plot and implores Esther to intervene, reminding her of her unique position and the possibility that she has come to her royal status "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

Esther, after fasting and prayer, courageously approaches the king without being summoned, an act punishable by death unless the king extends his scepter. She invites the king and Haman to a banquet, where she reveals her Jewish identity and Haman's plot against her people. The king, enraged by Haman's treachery, orders Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Subsequently, Mordecai is elevated to a position of power, and the Jews are granted the right to defend themselves, leading to their deliverance.

Theological Significance:
Hadassah's account is a profound testament to God's providence and the importance of faith and courage in the face of adversity. Her willingness to risk her life for her people exemplifies selflessness and devotion. The Book of Esther, though unique in that it does not explicitly mention God, powerfully illustrates His unseen hand guiding the events for the preservation of His people.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The events of Esther take place during the Persian Empire, a time when the Jewish people were living in exile. The account reflects the challenges faced by the Jewish diaspora, including the threat of assimilation and persecution. Esther's rise to queenship and her subsequent actions highlight the potential for individuals to influence history and effect change, even within a foreign and often hostile environment.

Legacy:
The Jewish festival of Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jews as recounted in the Book of Esther. It is a time of celebration, feasting, and the giving of gifts, marked by the reading of the Megillah (the scroll of Esther). Esther's legacy endures as a symbol of bravery and faith, inspiring countless generations to stand firm in their convictions and trust in divine providence.Hadas'sah (1 Occurrence)

Esther 2:7
And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter; for she had neither father nor mother, and the maiden was of beautiful form and fair to look on; and when her father and mother were dead, Mordecai took her for his own daughter.
(See RSV)

Hadas'sah (1 Occurrence)
Hadas'sah. Hadassah, Hadas'sah. Hadattah . Multi-Version Concordance
Hadas'sah (1 Occurrence). Esther 2:7 And he brought up Hadassah ...
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Esther (48 Occurrences)
... She was a Jewess named Hadas'sah (the myrtle), but when she entered the royal harem
she received the name by which she henceforth became known (Esther 2:7). It ...
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Hadassah (1 Occurrence)

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Hadattah (1 Occurrence)

/h/hadattah.htm - 7k

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